• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    vertical joint and surface and substrate coating systems for surface coating system and substrate coating semi-floating surface fabrication method. a vertical joining system (10) is formed for substrates (12) with jm and jf joints which engage by relative motion, in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces (14) and (16) of the substrate (12). the joints are configured to allow for relative rotation of up to (3) degrees (ie, clockwise or counterclockwise) while maintaining joint engagement. the jm and jf joints are further configured to form two locking planes (18, 20) one each on the inner and outer sides of the joint. coupling around the attachment planes (18, 20) is provided by the transverse outer extension surfaces cm1, cm2, cf1 and cf2. the cf1 and cf2 surfaces overlap the cm1 and cm2 surfaces. at least one surface on each pair of mating surfaces: cf1 and cm1 and cf2 and cm2 is smoothly curved. the jm and jf joints can be further arranged to provide a third locking plane (74) in parallel and between the locking planes (18, 20). the joints are disconnected by combining a downward rotation of one joint relative to the other, then applying a downward force. because of these characteristics, the coating with the articulation system can be placed on subsurfaces that have undulations greater than current industry standards worldwide. in addition, it is possible to replace damaged substrates by vertically lifting the damaged substrates, without the need to remove excess coating from the wall closest to the damaged substrates.
    公开号:BR112013023790B1
    申请号:R112013023790-2
    申请日:2012-03-16
    公开日:2021-06-29
    发明作者:Richard William Kell
    申请人:Inotec International Pty Ltd；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [0001] The present invention relates to a system of vertical joints for substrates allowing the substrates to be joined together, side by side. Non-limiting examples of such substrates include wood boards or panels, which can be used as a floor, wall or ceiling cladding. The present invention also relates to a surface coating system that uses substrates that incorporate the joint system. PRIOR TECHNIQUE
    [0002] "Click" type floor coverings comprise a plurality of substrates, each provided with similar joint systems to facilitate coupling of adjacent substrates. These joint systems often comprise first and second joints that run along two opposite sides of the substrate. The joints are configured such that the first joint on one substrate is capable of mating with the second joint on an adjacent substrate. The joints have specific configurations of tongues, grooves, protrusions, recesses and barbs to make the interlocking fit.
    [0003] Floor joint systems can be generally categorized as horizontal (or "placement") joint systems or vertical joint systems. Horizontal joint systems require movement in a plane substantially parallel to a plane that contains a major surface of the floor substrate (i.e., a horizontal plane) in order to engage the joints on adjacent substrates. Vertical joint systems, on the other hand, require movement and/or force in a plane perpendicular to a major surface of the substrates to effect joint engagement. Thus, it should be understood that the term "vertical" in the context of the present type of joint system and, when used in this Descriptive Report, does not mean absolutely vertical, but nevertheless perpendicular to a main surface of a substrate. When the substrate is placed on a horizontal surface, then "vertical" in this context is also absolutely vertical. However, as those skilled in the art will understand, substrates can be placed on surfaces of other arrangements, for example, on vertical surfaces, such as a vertical wall, or, sloped surfaces, such as on a sloped ceiling. In such situations, the vertical joint system has its meaning as a joint system that operates/fits through movement and/or force in a plane perpendicular to a main surface of the substrates.
    [0004] There are also "almost" vertical joint systems, which, although the manufacturer may claim to be a vertical system, initially require the fitting of adjacent panel joints by a lateral insertion of one joint into the other, followed by a rotation of one panel in relation to the other, in such a way that their respective main surfaces are coplanar.
    [0005] The above references to the prior art do not constitute an acknowledgment that the technique forms a part of the common general knowledge of a person of common knowledge in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the joint system as set out here. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [0006] Aspects of the present invention provide vertical joint systems for substrates. Vertical joint systems facilitate the provision of a surface coating system, which allows for very easy installation and, more particularly, repair. For this purpose, repair can be accomplished by vertically lifting damaged panels without the need to pull up the excess floor from the wall closest to the damaged panels.
    [0007] Other aspects of the present invention provide vertical joint systems for substrates, in which nested substrates may rotate or pivot relative to one another positively or negatively (i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise), while maintaining the fit.
    [0008] In one aspect, there is provided a system of vertical joints for a substrate having a first and second opposing main surfaces, the joint system comprising: first and second non-symmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with similar joint systems to mate together in response to a force applied in a coupling direction which is perpendicular to the main surfaces; the first and second gaskets each being provided with two laterally spaced transversely extending surfaces configured to allow the first gasket of one substrate to engage the second gasket of a second substrate with the two transversely extending surfaces of the first joint located relative to the two transversely extending surfaces of the second joint to form respective first and second locking planes on an innermost side and an outermost side of each joint, each locking plane being parallel to the coupling direction. and wherein the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane extend laterally toward each other from opposite sides of the locking plane with the transversely extending surfaces of the second joint overhanging the trans-extending surfaces. -versally from the first joint to inhibit the separation of the fitted joints, in that at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile.
    [0009] In one embodiment, the transversely extending surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of two nested substrates by up to 3° while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00010] In one embodiment, the transversely extending surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of one of the embedded substrates relative to the other by an angle of between 7° to 10° towards the surfaces whose substrates are placed, while maintains the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00011] In one embodiment, an empty space is created on at least one side of each locking plane, due to the non-symmetrical configuration of the first and second joints.
    [00012] In one embodiment, at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with at least one of the locking planes has a profile of a continuous convex curve.
    [00013] In one embodiment, at least one of the locking planes of a transversely extending surface has a profile of a continuous convex curve and the other has a profile that comprises one or more straight lines.
    [00014] In an embodiment, each of the transversely extending surfaces has a profile of a continuous convex curve.
    [00015] In one embodiment, two or more of the transversely extending surfaces have different continuous convex curve profiles.
    [00016] In one embodiment, each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the coupling direction and an adjacent recess formed along a respective side of the substrate; and the transversely extending surfaces are formed on an outermost surface of each protrusion and an innermost surface of each recess.
    [00017] In one embodiment, the first joint protrusion has a bulb profile with a neck of reduced width, wherein a portion of the surface that extends transversely over the first joint protrusion is adjacent to an outermost side of the neck.
    [00018] In one embodiment, the second joint recess has a bulb profile with a neck of reduced width, wherein a portion of the surface that extends transversely over the second joint recess is adjacent to an outermost side of the neck.
    [00019] In one modality, a plane that contains a line of shortest distance through the neck or each of the necks is inclined in relation to the main surfaces. In one embodiment, a plane containing a line of shortest distance through the neck or each of the necks is situated on an inclined plane relative to the main surfaces.
    [00020] In a modality, the respective lines of shortest distance through each neck are parallel to each other.
    [00021] In a modality, the shortest distance lines through each neck are collinear.
    [00022] In an embodiment, each transversely extending surface constitutes a part of a respective inflection surface.
    [00023] In one embodiment, each of the first and second joints is formed with a third transversely extending surface located between the two transversely extending surfaces of that joint, the third transversely extending surfaces located relatively so as to form a third locking plane disposed intermediately to the first and second locking planes and wherein the transversely extending third surfaces associated with the third locking plane laterally extend towards each other from opposite sides of the third locking plane with the third surface extending transversely from the second joint, in alignment with or overhanging the third surface extending transversely from the first joint.
    [00024] In one embodiment, the first and second joints are relatively configured to fit together around a third locking plane that inhibits the separation of the snapped joints in a direction parallel to the coupling direction, the third plane being lock arranged parallel to and between the first and second lock planes.
    [00025] In one embodiment, each of the first and second joints comprise a transversely extending third surface wherein the transversely extending third surfaces extend to opposite sides of the third locking plane when in the engaged joint.
    [00026] In a second aspect there is provided a system of vertical joints for a substrate having a first and a second opposite main surfaces, the joint system comprising:
    [00027] first and second unsymmetrical joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with similar joint systems to mate with each other in response to a force applied in one direction coupling, which is perpendicular to the main surfaces; the first and second gaskets each being provided with laterally spaced inflection surfaces configured to allow the first gasket of one substrate to engage the second gasket of a second substrate with the two inflection surfaces of the first gasket engaging the two surfaces of inflection of the second joint on innermost and outermost sides of each joint to form respective first and second locking planes, each of which independently inhibits the separation of the nested joints in a direction parallel to the coupling direction, each plane lying parallel to the coupling direction and where the inflection surfaces associated with each locking plane lie on either side of that locking plane.
    [00028] In one embodiment, the inflection surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of two nested substrates by up to 3°, while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00029] In one embodiment, the inflection surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of one of the nested substrates relative to the other by an angle of 7° to 10° towards the surfaces whose substrates are placed, while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00030] In one embodiment, each joint comprises a third inflection surface and the respective third inflection surfaces are relatively configured to mate with one another to form a third locking plane disposed between the first and second locking planes.
    [00031] In one embodiment, an empty space is created on at least one side of each locking plane, due to the non-symmetrical configuration of the first and second joints.
    [00032] In one embodiment, at least one of the inflection surfaces associated with each locking plane has a profile of a continuous curve.
    [00033] In one embodiment, one inflection surface associated with a locking plane has a profile of a continuous curve and the other inflection of that locking plane has a profile comprising one or more straight lines.
    [00034] In an embodiment, each of the inflection surfaces has a profile of a continuous curve.
    [00035] In one embodiment, each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the coupling direction and an adjacent recess formed along a respective side of the substrate; and the inflection surfaces associated with the first and second locking planes are formed on an outermost surface of each protrusion and an innermost surface of each recess.
    [00036] In one embodiment, the first joint protrusion has a bulb profile that has a neck of reduced width, in which a portion of the inflection surface on the first joint protrusion is formed along an outermost side of the neck .
    [00037] In one embodiment, the second joint recess has a bulb profile that has a neck of reduced width, in which a portion of the inflection surface over the second joint recess is formed along an outermost side of the neck .
    [00038] In one modality, a plane that contains a line of shortest distance through the neck or each of the necks is inclined in relation to the main surfaces.
    [00039] In one modality, a plane containing a line of shortest distance through the neck or each of the necks is located in an inclined plane in relation to the main surfaces.
    [00040] In a modality, the respective lines of shortest distance through each neck are parallel to each other.
    [00041] In a modality, the shortest distance lines through each neck are collinear.
    [00042] In a third aspect there is provided a system of vertical joints for a substrate that has a first and second opposing main surfaces, the joint system comprising: non-symmetric tongue and groove joints that extend along opposite sides of the substrate , the tongue and groove joints being configured to allow two substrates with similar joint systems to mate together in response to a force applied in a coupling direction, which is perpendicular to the main surfaces; the tongue comprising a tongue protrusion extending generally perpendicularly from the first main surface towards the second main surface and a male recess formed within the tongue protrusion; the female joint comprising a female protrusion extending generally perpendicularly from the second main surface towards the first main surface and a female recess formed within the female protrusion; the male joint having a first male interlocking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion farthest from its female recess, a second male interlocking surface formed on a side of its female recess farthest from its male protrusion and being a third interlocking surface male a surface common to the male protrusion and male recess; the female joint having a first female interlocking surface formed on a side of its female indentation furthest from its male protrusion, a second female interlocking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion furthest from its female indentation, and being a third surface of female blockage a surface common to the female protrusion and female recess; the locking surfaces being configured such that when a tongue and groove joint of two substrates are mated together, the first male and female interlocking surfaces engage to form a first interlocking plane, the second male and female interlocking surfaces interlock. mate to form a second locking plane, and the third male and female locking surfaces mate to form a third locking plane located between the first and second locking planes, each locking plane inhibiting separation of the fitted joints in one direction. parallel to the coupling direction.
    [00043] In one embodiment, the interlocking surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of two nested substrates by up to 3°, while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00044] In one embodiment, the locking surfaces are configured to allow the relative rotation of one of the nested substrates relative to the other by an angle of 7° to 10° towards the surfaces whose substrates are placed, while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00045] In one embodiment: at least one of the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface is provided with a smoothly curved transversely extending portion; and at least one of the second male locking surface and the second female locking surface is provided with a smoothly curved transversely extending portion.
    [00046] In one embodiment, the other of the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface is provided with a transversely extending part comprising at least one flat surface.
    [00047] In one embodiment, the other of the second male locking surface and the second female locking surface is provided with a transversely extending part comprising at least one flat surface.
    [00048] In one embodiment, each of the first and second male and female locking surfaces comprises a smoothly curved transversely extending portion.
    [00049] In one embodiment, each of the first male locking surface, first female locking surface, second male locking surface, and second female locking surface is formed with an inflection; where the inflections fit together over the first and second locking planes.
    [00050] In one embodiment, at least one of the third male locking surface and the third female locking surface is formed with an inflection.
    [00051] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a system of vertical joints for a substrate having a first and second opposing main surfaces, the joint system comprising: first and second non-symmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two or more substrates with similar joint systems to mate together in response to a force applied in a coupling direction, which is perpendicular to the main surfaces, and to allow substrates to be mated together. are disengaged by lifting a first substrate in a direction opposite to the coupling direction to facilitate rotation of adjacent substrates nested along opposite sides of the first substrate so as to lie on sloping planes from the first substrate and subsequently applying a force to the Coupling direction for the second joints of the nested substrates.
    [00052] In one embodiment, the first and second gaskets are each provided with two laterally spaced, transversely extending surface portions configured to allow the first gasket of one substrate to fit the second gasket of a second substrate with the two transversely extending surfaces of the first joint located relative to the two transversely extending surfaces of the second joint to form respective first and second locking planes on an innermost side and an outermost side of each joint, locating each locking plane is parallel to the coupling direction and wherein the transversely extending parts associated with each locking plane extend laterally towards each other from opposite sides of the locking plane with the transversely extending parts of the second joint overhanging the transversely extending parts of the first joint.
    [00053] In one embodiment, at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with at least one of the locking planes has a profile of a continuous convex curve.
    [00054] In one embodiment, the first and second joints are each provided with laterally spaced inflection surfaces configured to allow the first joint of one substrate to fit the second joint of a second substrate with the two inflection surfaces of the first joint by engaging the two inflection surfaces of the second joint on the inner and outermost sides of each joint to form respective first and second locking planes, each of which independently inhibits the separation of the fitted joints in a direction parallel to the coupling direction. , each locking plane being parallel to the coupling direction and wherein the inflection surfaces associated with each locking plane are situated on both sides of that locking plane.
    [00055] In one embodiment, the first joint is a tongue joint and the second joint is a female joint, the tongue joint comprising a male protrusion generally extending perpendicularly from the first main surface towards the second main surface and a male indentation formed within the male protrusion; the female joint comprising a female protrusion extending generally perpendicularly from the second main surface towards the first main surface and a female recess formed within the female protrusion; the male joint having a first male interlocking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion furthest from its female recess, a second male interlocking surface formed on a side of its female recess furthest from its male protrusion and being a third interlocking surface male a surface common to the male protrusion and male recess; the female joint having a first female interlocking surface formed on a side of its female indentation furthest from its male protrusion, a second female interlocking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion furthest from its female indentation, and being a third surface of female blockage a surface common to the female protrusion and the female recess; the locking surfaces being configured such that when a tongue and groove joint of two substrates are mated together, the first male and female interlocking surfaces engage to form a first interlocking plane, the second male and female interlocking surfaces interlock. mate to form a second locking plane, and the third male and female locking surfaces mate to form a third locking plane located between the first and second locking planes, each locking plane inhibiting separation of the fitted joints in one direction. parallel to the coupling direction.
    [00056] In one embodiment, the first and second joints are configured to create three locking planes when mutually fitted, each locking plane being located parallel to the coupling direction and which inhibits the separation of the fitted joints in a direction opposite to the coupling direction.
    [00057] In one embodiment, when the substrate is in the configuration of a rectangular or square flat substrate that has four sides, the first joint extends to two adjacent sides and the second joint extends to the two remaining adjacent sides.
    [00058] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a surface coating system comprising a plurality of substrates where each substrate is provided with a system of vertical joints as defined in any one of the first through fourth and tenth aspects.
    [00059] In a sixth aspect, a semi-floating surface coating system is provided, comprising:
    [00060] A plurality of substrates, each substrate having a system of vertical joints as defined in any one of the first through fourth and tenth aspects;
    [00061] An amount of adhesive bonded to the first main surface; and, one or more release strips covering the resealable adhesive.
    [00062] In one embodiment, the amount of resealable adhesive is applied in two or more spaced lines extending in a longitudinal direction of the substrate.
    [00063] In one embodiment, the amount of resealable adhesive is applied as a continuous band or pearl on at least one of the spaced lines.
    [00064] In one embodiment, the resealable adhesive is applied in a plurality of lines, which are evenly spaced from one another and symmetrically arranged around a longitudinal centerline of the substrate.
    [00065] In one embodiment, the resealable adhesive has a thickness, measured perpendicular to the first main surface, between 1 - 6 mm.
    [00066] In one embodiment, the glue-on glue has a thickness between 2 - 4 mm.
    [00067] In one embodiment, the amount of adhesive comprises an amount of joint adhesive bonded to the substrate and covered with a release strip, the joint adhesive located in a position where, when the joint system of a substrate is coupled to the system of joints of another substrate with the covering strip removed, the joint adhesive on the one substrate adheres to the joint of the other substrate.
    [00068] In one modality, the substrate is made of a material selected from the group consisting of: solid wood, engineered wood, laminate, bamboo, plastics and vinyl.
    [00069] In a seventh aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing a surface coating substrate, semi-floating, comprising: providing a surface coating system according to the fifth aspect; bonding a quantity of a resealable adhesive to the first main surface; and, cover the adhesive with a release strip.
    [00070] In one embodiment, binding the adhesive comprises applying the adhesive in two or more spaced lines extending in a longitudinal direction of the substrate.
    [00071] In one embodiment, bonding comprises applying the adhesive as a continuous band or bead on at least one of the lines spaced from each other on the first main surface.
    [00072] In one embodiment, the method comprises applying the adhesive with a uniform thickness between 1 - 6 mm, measured in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces.
    [00073] In one embodiment, the method comprises applying the adhesive with uniform thickness between 2 - 4 mm.
    [00074] In one embodiment, the method comprises bonding an amount of adhesive bonding to at least a part of the joint and covering the adhesive at the joints with a release strip, the adhesive being applied in one location on a first substrate where, when the vertical joint systems of the first and second substrate are coupled together with a release strip covering the adhesive on the joint of the first substrate that is removed, the adhesive adheres to the joint of the second substrate.
    [00075] In an eighth aspect, there is provided a surface coating system comprising a plurality of substrates, each substrate having: first and second opposing main surfaces wherein the first main surface is arranged to confront an underlying support to be covered by the system ; and an upright joint system, the upright joint system comprising: first and second non-symmetrical joints extending along opposite sides of a substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two or more substrates to mate with one another. another in response to a force applied in a coupling direction, which is perpendicular to the main surfaces, and to allow nested substrates to be disengaged by: (a) lifting a first substrate in a direction opposite to the coupling direction to facilitate rotation of adjacent substrates fitted along opposite sides of the first substrate so as to lie on sloping planes from the first substrate; and (b) subsequently applying a force in the coupling direction to the second joints of the embedded substrates.
    [00076] In one embodiment, the surface coating system comprises at least one of a detachable connector that can be affixed to the first substrate, the substrate comprising an axis arranged to pass through a hole formed in the first substrate to rest on the support underlying support, the connector being operable to extend the shaft through the hole to thereby lift the first substrate from the underlying support.
    [00077] In one embodiment of a surface cladding system the vertical joint system is according to any one of the first through fourth and tenth aspects.
    [00078] In one embodiment, the surface coating system comprises an amount of adhesive bonded to the first main surface; and, one or more release strips covering the resealable adhesive.
    [00079] In one embodiment, the surface coating system comprises an amount of adhesive bonded to one or both of the first and second joints and respective release strips that overlap the adhesive bonded on the joints.
    [00080] In one embodiment, the system of vertical joints comprises an amount of adhesive bonded to one or both of the first and second joints and respective release strips that overlap the adhesive bonded on the joints.
    [00081] In a ninth aspect, a substrate for a surface coating system is provided, the substrate comprising a system of vertical joints as defined in any one of the first through fourth and tenth aspects.
    [00082] In one embodiment, the substrate comprises an amount of adhesive bonded to one or both of the first and second joints and respective release strips that overlap the adhesive bonded over the joints.
    [00083] In one embodiment, the substrate of each joint provided with the bonded adhesive backing is provided with a recess for seating the bonded adhesive backing.
    [00084] In one embodiment, the substrate comprises an amount of resealable adhesive bonded to the first main surface; and, one or more release strips covering the resealable adhesive on the first main surface.
    [00085] In one embodiment, the vertical joint system comprises a layer of wax being provided over joint surfaces which, when fitted with a similar joint, snap together to form the first and second locking planes.
    [00086] In one embodiment of the vertical joint system, each recess of a substrate that is provided with the joint system is configured to elastically open to allow the corresponding protrusion of a second substrate with a similar joint system to enter and engage the recess.
    [00087] In a tenth aspect, there is provided a system of vertical joints for a substrate having a first and second opposing main surfaces, the joint system comprising: first and second non-symmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with similar joint systems to mate together in response to a force applied in a direction of engagement that is perpendicular to the main surfaces; the first and second joints being configured to permit the relative rotation of two nested substrates by up to 3° while maintaining the coupling of the two substrates.
    [00088] In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, the first and second joints are each provided with two generally convex surfaces, laterally spaced, configured to allow the first joint of one substrate to engage the second joint of a second substrate with the two generally convex surfaces of the first joint located relative to the two generally convex surfaces of the second joint to form respective first and second locking planes on an innermost and outermost side of each joint, each locking plane being parallel to the coupling direction and wherein the generally convex surfaces associated with each locking plane extend laterally towards each other from opposite sides of the locking plane with the generally convex surfaces of the second joint overhanging the generally convex surfaces of the first joint to inhibit the separation of slotted joints, where at least one of the surfaces g Convex curves associated with each locking plane have a curved profile.
    [00089] In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the coupling direction and an adjacent recess formed along a respective side of the substrate; and the transversely extending surfaces are formed on an outermost surface of each protrusion and an innermost surface of each recess.
    [00090] In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, each recess is configured to elastically open to allow a protrusion of a substrate with a system of similar joints to enter and engage the recess.
    [00091] In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, the first and second joints are configured to form a third interlocking plane intermediate to the first and second interlocking planes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [00092] Notwithstanding any of the forms that may fall within the scope of the joint system, as set out in the summary, specific modalities will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached drawings, in which: Figure 1a is a sectional view of a panel that incorporates a modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 1b is a cross-sectional view of a portion of two panels incorporating the vertical joint system, in a nested state; Figure 2 is an isometric view of a portion of two panels incorporating the vertical joint system when in an undocked state; Figure 3a illustrates the ability of nested panels incorporating the vertical joint system to rotate in a first direction relative to one another; Figure 3b illustrates the ability of nested panels incorporating the vertical joint system to rotate in a second opposite direction relative to one another; Figure 4a illustrates the effect of laterally bending a substrate which is situated over a depression or cavity in a support surface; Figure 4b is an enlarged view of detail A, marked in Figure 4a; Figure 4c illustrates the effect of laterally bending a panel when overlying a ledge or rise in an underlying surface; Figure 4d is an enlarged view of detail B, marked in Figure 4c; Figure 4e is a schematic representation that provides a comparison in the ability to accommodate surface a rebound or elevation between prior art joint systems and vertical joint systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4f is an enlarged view of detail C, marked in Figure 4e; Figure 4g is a schematic representation providing a comparison in the ability to accommodate a depression or cavity between prior art joint systems and vertical joint systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4h is an enlarged view of detail D, marked in Figure 4g; Figure 5a is a representation of the relative juxtaposition of panels incorporating the present vertical joint system, which is ready for engagement; Figures 5b - 5e sequentially represent the snapping-in of panels incorporating modalities of the vertical joint system from an initial contact point in Figure 5b to complete the snapping-in in Figure 5e; Figures 5f - 5k represent, in sequence, a self-alignment feature of vertical joint system modalities; Figures 5i - 5u provide a schematic comparison between the effect of the self-alignment feature enabled by embodiments of the present invention and the prior art; Figure 6a is an elevation view of an area covered by substrates joined together with embodiments of the present vertical joint system and identifying a panel to be removed; Figure 6b is a view of section A-A of Figure 6a; Figure 6c is a top elevation of a panel provided with connectors that allow removal of the panel; Figures 6d - 6s represent, in sequence, steps for removing and replacing the panel highlighted in Figure 6a; Figure 7a is a side elevation of the connector shown in Figure 6c; Figure 7b is an upper elevation of the connector shown in Figure 6c; Figure 8a is a side elevation of a wedge used in conjunction with the connector to extract a mated panel; Figure 8b is an elevation view of the wedge shown in Figure 8a; Figures 9a - 9f represent, in sequence, the disengaging of joined panels from an initial fully mated state shown in Figure 9a to a fully disengaged state shown in Figure 9f; Figure 10a represents a panel that incorporates a second embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 10b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the second embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 11a represents a panel that incorporates a third embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 11b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the third embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 11c illustrates the ability of nested panels incorporating the third mode joint system to rotate in a first direction relative to one another; Figure 11d illustrates the ability of nested panels incorporating the third mode joint system to rotate in a second opposite direction relative to one another; Figure 12a represents a panel incorporating a fourth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 12b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the fourth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 13a represents a panel incorporating a fifth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 13b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the fifth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 14a represents a panel incorporating a sixth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 14b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the sixth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 15a represents a panel incorporating a seventh embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 15b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the seventh modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 16a represents a panel incorporating an eighth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 16b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the eighth modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 17a represents a panel incorporating a ninth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 17b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the ninth modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 17c schematically illustrates panels of different thickness that incorporate the ninth modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 17d illustrates snapping together of two panels shown in Figure 17c; Figure 17e provides a series of illustrative representations of the jointing of separate pairs of panels of varying thickness, which incorporate the ninth modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 18a represents a panel incorporating a tenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 18b illustrates the fitting of two panels that incorporate the tenth modality of the vertical joint system; Figure 19a represents a panel incorporating an eleventh embodiment of the joint system; Figure 19b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the eleventh embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 20a represents a panel that incorporates a twelfth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 20b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the twelfth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 21a represents a panel incorporating a thirteenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 21b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the thirteenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 22 illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate a fifteenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 23a represents a panel incorporating a fourteenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figure 23b illustrates the joining of two panels that incorporate the fourteenth embodiment of the vertical joint system; Figures 23c - 23i represent, in sequence, the fitting and disengaging of the fourteenth modality of the vertical joint system when incorporating a resealable adhesive. Figure 24a represents a panel provided incorporating any embodiment of the vertical joint system with the addition of a resealable adhesive placed as strips; Figure 24b is a section AA view of the panel shown in Figure 24a; Figure 24c shows the panel of Figures 24a and 24b when adhered to an underlying support surface; Figure 25a represents a panel provided with any embodiment of the vertical joint system with the addition of a resealable adhesive placed like beads; Figure 25b shows the panel of Figure 25a when adhered to an underlying support surface; Figures 26a-26e depict, in sequence, the removal of a panel of the type shown in Figures 25a and 25b which is adhered to an underlying support; and, Figures 27a and 27b depict a method of laying a floor using jointed panels. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC MODALITIES
    [00093] Figures 1 to 2 illustrate a first embodiment of a vertical joint system 10 (hereinafter referred to as "joint system 10") for a substrate. The substrate is shown in cross-sectional view and, in this embodiment, is in the form of an elongated rectangular panel 12. The substrate or panel 12 has opposite first and second main surfaces 14 and 16, respectively. Surfaces 14 and 16 are flat surfaces and lie parallel to each other. In one orientation, surface 14 is an exposed surface of panel 12, while surface 16 rests against a support surface or structure, such as, but not limited to, a concrete floor, squared wood, brick or wooden floor. vinyl or wooden slats. The joint system 10 comprises a first joint Jm and a second non-symmetric joint Jf. The first joint Jm can theoretically be considered to be a tongue joint, while the second joint Jf can theoretically be considered to be a female joint. This designation of the joints will be explained briefly.
    [00094] Assuming the substrate is in the shape of a quadrilateral, the joint Jm extends along two adjacent sides and Jf extends along the remaining two adjacent sides. For example, when the substrate is an elongated rectangular floorboard, as shown in Figures 1b and 1c, the joint Jm extends along one longitudinal side and an adjacent transverse side, while the joint Jf extends along the other ( i.e., opposite) longitudinal side and the other (i.e., opposite) adjacent transverse side.
    [00095] Figure 1b illustrates a first joint Jm of a first panel 12a fitted with a second joint Jf of a second panel 12b that has an identical joint system 10. For ease of description, panels 12a and 12b will be referred to generally as "12 panels".
    [00096] As will be explained in greater detail shortly, the first and second joints Jm and Jf are configured to allow two panels 12 (i.e. panels 12a and 12b) to mate together in response to pressure or force F (see Figure 5) applied in a coupling direction D which is perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. When the panels 12 are floor panels, a direction D is situated in the vertical plane and more particularly is directed downwards towards the surface on which the panels are placed. This is equivalent to Jm and Jf joints mating by virtue of movement of a joint (or substrate) relative to another direction perpendicular to a plane containing the principal surfaces.
    [00097] Joint Jm comprises a male protrusion Pm and a male recess Rm, while joint Jf comprises a female protrusion Pf and female recess Rf. The first joint Jm is theoretically designed as the tongue because its protrusion Pm overhanging from the top surface 14. The second joint Jf is theoretically designed as the tongue because its recess Rf is configured to receive the protrusion Pm.
    [00098] When describing the characteristics or characteristic common to all protrusions, the protrusions will generally be referred to in this description in the singular as "P protrusion", and in the plural as "P protrusions". When describing features or characteristic common to all recesses, the recesses will generally be referred to in this description in the singular as "recess R", and in the plural as "recesses R". When describing features or characteristic common to all joints, it will generally be referred to in this description in the singular as "joint J", and in the plural as "joint J".
    [00099] The Jm male joint has first, second and third male locking surfaces ML1, ML2 and ML3 respectively (generally referred to as "ML male locking surfaces"). Each of the ML male locking surfaces continuously extends in the general direction perpendicular to the main surfaces. Similarly, female joint Jf has first, second and third female locking surfaces FL1, FL2 and FL3 respectively (generally referred to as "Female locking surfaces FL"). The male and female locking surfaces are collectively referred to generally as the L locking surfaces.
    [000100] Each of the locking surfaces L extends continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the main surfaces. The expression "continuously extends in the general direction perpendicular to the main surfaces" in the context of male and female interlocking surfaces is intended to denote that the surfaces generally extend between the opposing main surfaces, but continuously such that it extends only in one direction, that is, always in a direction from surface 14 to surface 16 or vice versa, and thus does not back on itself, as would be the case, for example, if the surface included a dewlap or a structure similar to hook.
    [000101] The male locking surface ML1 extends from an edge of the main surface 14, adjacent to the Pm protrusion, and down from the adjacent side of the Pm protrusion to designate anteriorly to the surface of the Pm protrusion by turning through more than 45° from perpendicular to the main surface 14. It will be noted that the locking surface ML1 extends continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the main surface 14, without turning back on itself. Thus, each point on the ML1 surface is located on a different horizontal plane. In contrast, in the event that a hook-like or barb-like structure were provided, then the corresponding surface would return on itself and a plane parallel to the main surface 14 would intersect the surface at three different locations.
    [000102] The male locking surface ML2 extends from the second main surface 16 upwards along an adjacent side of the recess Rm to a point before the deeper portion of the recess Rm turning through more than 45° in the direction for the Pm protrusion. Finally, the third male surface ML3 extends along a common or shared surface between a Pm and Rm protrusion and denoted by endpoints before the surface turns through more than 45° to the perpendicular in the deepest portion of the recess. Rm, or the furthest portion of the Pm protrusion.
    [000103] As will be explained briefly, the first and second male and female locking surfaces fit around respective locking planes that inhibit the vertical separation of slotted joints Jm and Jf. The ML3 and FL3 male and female third locking planes can also be configured to form a third locking plane. Also, the locking surfaces L in the various embodiments comprise inflection surfaces, which, in turn, can comprise transversely extending outwardly surfaces that can take the form of convex or eccentric surfaces, or cambers. The relationship between locking surfaces L, inflection surfaces and transverse surfaces extending outwardly will be evident from the following description.
    [000104] Observing in more detail the configuration of the first and second joints Jm and Jf (generally referred to as "J joints"), it will be seen that each of these joints is provided with two spaced, transversely extending surfaces or cambers out. Transversely extending surfaces or cambers can also be considered and termed "eccentric surfaces" as they move across and in contact with each other and sometimes often with a rolling or pivoting action. The transversely extending surfaces are designated as Cm1 and Cm2 over the first joint Jm and Cf1 and Cf2 over the Jf joint. In many modalities, surfaces that extend transversely are convex surfaces that curve smoothly. However, as will be evident from the following description, some embodiments of the transversely extending surfaces are of other configurations. For example, the transversely extending surface can generally be convex in that the surface is not continuously or smoothly curved over its entire length, but is composed of one or more straight/flat surfaces. For ease of reference, surfaces that extend transversely over tongue joint Jm will be referred to as "surface Cmi", where i = 1, 2, 3 and, similarly, surfaces that extend transversely over tongue joint Jf will be referred to as "Cfi surface" where i = 1, 2, 3.
    [000105] The surface Cm1 is formed in a protrusion Pm of a first joint Jm, while the surface Cm2 is formed in the recess Rm of the joint Jm. Similarly, surface Cf2 is formed in a protrusion Pf in joint Jf, while surface Cf1 is formed in recess Rf of the second joint Jf. (For ease of description, surfaces Cm2 and Cm1 will generally be referred to as "surface Cm"; surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 will generally be referred to as "surface Cf"; and collectively surfaces Cm2, Cm1, Cf1 and Cf2 will generally be referred to as "C surfaces").
    [000106] Figure 1b represents the J joints, in a snapped state. Of course, when joints J are mated, their respective transversely extending surfaces are located relative to one another to form respective first and second locking planes 18 and 20, which inhibit separation of joints mated in an opposite direction. to coupling direction D.
    [000107] Each locking plane 18, 20 is located parallel to the coupling direction D. The transversely extending surfaces Cm1, Cf1, Cm2, Cf2 associated with each locking plane extend laterally towards each other from the sides opposites of the interlocking plane with the transversely extending surfaces of the second or tongue joint (ie, Cf1 and Cf2) overhanging the transversely extending surfaces of the first or tongue joint (ie, Cm1 and Cm2). This inhibits the separation of slotted joints Jm and Jf. It will also be noted that at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile. In this case, surface Cf1 associated with locking plane 18, and both surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 associated with locking plane 20 have curved profiles.
    [000108] During the mating of joints Jm and Jf, surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 pass and engage over surfaces Cf1 and Cf2. This action is allowed by one or both of the resilient compression of the protrusions Pm and Pf and resilient tension on the recesses Rm and Rf when the surfaces Cm pass the surfaces Cf, in response to the application of force F. If there is one or both of the resilient compression of the Pm and Pf protrusions and resilient stress in the Rm and Rf recesses is dependent on the material from which panel 12 is made. For example, in the case of a panel made of a very rigid or hard material, such as plain bamboo, there would be very little compression of the protrusions P, but tension in the recess R, which results in their opening or widening would allow for engagement. The ability of protrusions P to enter recesses R is assisted by the provision of a lubricant, such as wax, over joints Jm and Jf. The provision of lubricant and, in particular, wax also substantially eliminates noise at the joints and aids in the ability of adjacently fitted joints J to rotate relative to one another. This rotational movement is described later in the description.
    [000109] The horizontal separation between the fitted joints Jm and Jf is inhibited by placing the protrusions P in the respective recesses R. The joints Jm and Jf are also provided with respective flat abutment surfaces 24 and 26. The surfaces 24 and 26 extend from opposite edges of, and perpendicular to, main surface 14. The respective surfaces Cm and Cf are configured to create lateral compression forces between surfaces 24 and 26, keeping them in contact, thus preventing the creation of an interstice between the joined panels 12a and 12b.
    [000110] Consequently, as described above, surfaces Cm and Cf cooperate to provide both vertical and horizontal detention of panels 12a and 12b when the respective joints Jm and Jf are mated. However, in addition to this, surfaces Cm and Cf allow limited relative rotation between panels 12a and 12b while maintaining the fit of panels 12. This is shown in Figures 3a and 3b.
    [000111] Figure 3a shows panel 12a being rotated by +3° (3° in a counterclockwise direction) relative to panel 12b. Rotation is facilitated by pivoting at an upper corner of surface 24 over surface 26. This rotates the protrusion Pm within recess Rf and causes the eccentric of surface Cm2 to rise or roll up, but not stop past the apex of the surface. Cf2. The Pf projection is now effectively constrained between the Cm2 and Cm3 surfaces. In this configuration, the vertical separation between substrates 12a and 12b is inhibited by this constriction effect as well as because surface Cm1 remains below surface Cf1. The horizontal detent is maintained because the projections Pm and Pf remain within their respective recesses Rm and Rf.
    [000112] Referring to Figure 3b, panel 12a is rotated by -3° (3° in a clockwise direction) relative to panel 12b. This is facilitated by the surface Cm2 rolling down and acting as a pivot or fulcrum against the side of joint Jf that contains surface Cm2. This causes the surfaces 24 and 26 to separate, creating an interstice in the main top surfaces 14. Nevertheless, the panels 12a and 12b remain vertically and horizontally interlocked. Vertical detent between substrates is maintained by the mating of surfaces Cm2 and Cf2; and surfaces Cm1 and Cf1. The horizontal detent is provided by the projections Pm and Pf being maintained in their recesses Rf and Rm.
    [000113] The relative rotation between panel 12a and 12b is of great assistance in installing substrates, particularly on uneven surfaces such as a corrugated concrete floor. This is of great importance for the "do it yourself" by the user, although the benefits also flow through to the professional tier. Consider, for example, an irregular wavy surface, on which it is desired to lay a "click" type covering covering which has, namely, the prior art joint system, in which the tongue is inserted laterally or in a inclined angle into a crevice or recess. The corrugation may be in the form of a concave or shallow indentation in a part of the surface which is several times wider than the width of the panels. Depending on the degree or slope of the concavity, it can be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to insert a tab of a "to be" installed panel into the slot of a previously placed panel. This appears because the two panels do not lie, and will not lie, on the same plane, but, on the contrary, are angled in relation to each other due to their concavity.
    [000114] Additionally, when installing floor boards of a length of about 1 m or longer on an uneven surface, banana-shaped deformation or lateral bending occurs of the previously installed floor board due to an installer kneeling on it when trying to seat the floorboard. The board will bend under the weight of the kneeling installer due to the uneven underlying surface. This effect is represented in Figures 4a to 4d. Figures 4a and 4b show the lateral bending of a panel 12x outward when the irregular surface is a drop or cavity. Figures 4c and 4d show the inward bending of a 12x panel when the irregular surface is a bump or ridge. It will be appreciated that this bending makes it very difficult to achieve full longitudinal engagement with an adjacent panel without the formation of interstices. Under these circumstances, even professional installers have difficulty laying the floor and will need to rely on substantial physical effort and experience. The do-it-yourself installer will often give up and return the floor to the dealer based on the fact that he can't "click" fit, or end up hiring a professional installer.
    [000115] To provide perspective on the effect of relative rotation, capabilities of the joint system 10 compared to the prior art, reference is made to Figures 4e to 4h. Conventional flooring systems are able to accommodate a concavity or overhang in an underlying substrate, for example a 3-5mm concrete floor over a length of 1m, being the industry standard. Ripples greater than these prohibit the use of any prior art systems or at least make them difficult to install. Assuming they can be installed, corrugation can subsequently cause prior art joint systems to disengage horizontally and thus interstice excessively. Specifically in the case where the undulation is in the form of a shoulder or undulation there is the possibility of either total separation between adjacent panels and/or cracking or shearing of the joints. In the case where the undulation is the concavity, prior art joints are liable to shear or break due to the excessive tensile force that is applied relative to the joints.
    [000116] In Figures 4e to 4h (which are only schematic and not drawn to scale), the surface undulation of 3 - 5 mm that can be accommodated by the prior art system is shown as shaded area 30. Figures 4e and 4f represent a ripple in the form of a 3-5 mm rise or crest, while Figures 4g and 4h represent a ripple in the form of a 3-5 mm dip or cavity. In comparison, the + or - 3° rotation, available for the joint system 10 arrangements over a length of 1 m, provides a possible total displacement of 52 mm. The +3° rotation is illustrated in Figures 4e and 4f, while the -3° rotation is illustrated in Figures 4g and 4h. This allows substrates using the modalities of the joint system 10 to be successfully placed on floors, without disengaging or horizontal separation, where the floor may have, for example, a concave undulation, which, over a distance of one meter, falls by 52 mm below the adjacent flat surface portion of the floor. Maintaining the horizontal fit maintains the structural integrity of the floor. This is beneficial in terms of the appearance of the floor which, in turn, can add value to an associated home.
    [000117] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that this allows for the placement or placement of a flooring system that incorporates the modalities of the current joint system on substrates that lie outside 3 - 5 mm corrugation over a length of 1 m , dictated by world industry standards. This has significant practical and commercial benefits. The practical benefits are that the floor will be able to be successfully and easily laid by do-it-yourself installers and professional installers on substrates that have hitherto been unsuitable for conventional click-type flooring. The commercial benefit is that because flooring systems can be placed, they are not returned to the point of sale by disgruntled and frustrated installers who demand a refund for a system that, in their opinion, does not work. Conventional systems will work if the substrate is within the narrow range prescribed as the world industry standard, but the installer is usually unaware of the standard and, in any case, has no idea whether or not his substrate complies with the pattern. This is not a problem with the embodiments of the present invention as they are capable of being installed without separation on substrates that deviate from the world industry standard.
    [000118] Returning to Figures 1 and 2, it can be seen that the surfaces Cm and Cf constitute respective inflection surface portions, which, in turn, form portions of the respective locking surfaces L. Specifically, the surface Cm1 constitutes a part of an inflection surface Im1 (indicated by a dashed line) which, in turn, forms part of the first male locking surface ML1 (indicated by a broken dotted line) of the protrusion Pm. Inflection surface Im1 generally extends in a direction D from abutment surface 24.
    [000119] Similarly, surface Cm2 constitutes a part of inflection surface Im2 (indicated by a dashed line) which in turn forms part of the second male locking surface ML2 (indicated by broken dotted line). The surface ML2 is formed on the surface of the recess Rm and tends generally in a direction D from near a root 32 of the recess Rm.
    [000120] Surface Cf2 forms part of an inflection surface If2 (indicated by a dashed line) which, in turn, is part of the second female locking surface FL2 (indicated by a broken dotted line) formed on an outermost side of the projection Pf and extending generally in a direction parallel to a direction D.
    [000121] Surface Cf1 forms part of inflection surface If1 (indicated by dashed line) which in turn forms part of first female locking surface FL1 (indicated by broken dotted line). The surface FL1 hangs from the abutment surface 26 and in a direction generally parallel to the direction D and towards a root 34 of the recess Rf.
    [000122] Observing Figure 1b, it will be seen that the surfaces Cm1, Im1 and ML1 fit the surfaces Cf1, If1 and FL1, respectively; and the Cm2, Im2 and ML2 surfaces mate with the Cf2, If2 and FL2 surfaces when the Jm and Jf joints are mated. The engagement of these surfaces forms or creates the first and second interlocking planes 18, 20. Different portions of the interlock L, inflection I, and transversely extending surfaces C operate as detent and bearing surfaces during various stages of engagement and disengagement of the joints Jm and Jf.
    [000123] To provide the rolling action between adjacent mated substrates, at least one of the surfaces C and more specifically one of the inflection surfaces I in each pair of the mated or related surfaces is formed with a profile of a continuous or smooth curve . For example, consider the surfaces Cm1 and Cf1 and corresponding inflection surfaces Im and If1. When joints Jm and Jf are mated, surfaces Cm1 and Cf1 are located around or adjacent to the first locking plane 18; as are corresponding inflection surfaces Im1 and If1. In this case, the surface Cf1 and the corresponding inflection surface If1 have a profile of a continuous or smooth curve. However surface Cm1 and corresponding inflection surface Im1 has a profile comprising a straight line 36. The straight line is relatively short and forms a small crest or peak 38 on surface Cm1 and inflection surfaces Im1. The ridge 38 has a relatively small contact area against the if1 inflection surface, minimizing friction between the surfaces and the possibility of sticking during relative rotational movement.
    [000124] In contrast, the surfaces Cm2 and Cf2; and corresponding inflection surfaces Im2 and If2 which are located around and form the locking background 20 each have a profile of a continuous curve. However, other embodiments will be described later, in which one of the surfaces Cm2/Im2 or Cf2/If2 has a profile comprising one or more straight lines.
    [000125] The first and second male locking surfaces ML1 and ML2 and more specifically the associated surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 and corresponding inflection surfaces Im1 and Im2 constitute the extreme (ie innermost and outermost) surfaces of bending and extending transversely from the first joint Jm (male). The first and second female locking surfaces FL1 and FL2, and more specifically the associated surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 and the inflection surfaces If1 and If2 constitute the transversely extending end surfaces and inflection surfaces of the second joint (female) Jf. These transversely extending and inflection end surfaces form respective surface pairs that create end planes 18 and 20 (ie innermost and outermost) 18 and 20 at the mutually mated joints Jm and Jf. This is clearly evident from Figure 1b.
    [000126] Specifically, the surface pairs are, in this modality: Im1 and If1 or Cm1 and Cf1; and Im2 and If2, or Cm2 and Cf2. The above-described relative rotation between the panels incorporating the embodiments of the joint system 10 is facilitated by forming a surface on each of the surface pairs as a smoothly or continuously curved surface.
    [000127] The surfaces Cm1 and Im1 form part of an outer peripheral surface 40 of the Pm protrusion. The protrusion Pm has a generally sphere-like or bulbous profile, which leans in a direction D from the main surface 14. The outer surface 40 after the inflection surface Im1 curves in the direction of the recess m. The surface 40 is provided with the recess 42 at a location farthest from the main surface 14. As shown in Figure 1b, when the joints Jm and Jf are fitted, the recess 42 forms a reservoir 44 against a lowermost portion of the surface 46 of the Rf recess. Except for recess 42, the end of protrusion Pm facing the base of recess Rf 1 is rounded or curved. The first male locking surface ML1 comprises the combination of surface 24 and inflection surface Im1.
    [000128] The recess 42 and corresponding reservoir 44 can be used for several different purposes. These include, but are not limited to, receiving adhesive and/or sealing compound; acting as a reservoir for debris that may have fallen into the Rf recess during installation, or both. In that regard, recess 42 faces a lower portion of surface 46 in recess Rf. It is expected that most of the debris falling into the Rf recess will collect at the lowest point on surface 46. As the Jm and Jf joints are fitted by a vertical movement, a substantial proportion of any debris is likely to be captured in the reservoir 44, subsequently created. In the absence of such a feature, it may be necessary to clean the Rf recess, for example, by blowing compressed air, using a vacuum or a broom to remove debris that might otherwise interfere with the nesting process. Recess 42/reservoir 44 can also accommodate expansion and contraction in J joints.
    [000129] The surface 40 after the recess 42 curves around the recess Rm and incorporates another inflection surface Im3. The inflection surface Im3 is a "shared" surface between the protrusion Pm and the recess Rm and includes the surface Cm3. Surface Cm3 has a transition to surface 40 from a generally horizontal arrangement to a generally vertical arrangement. The third male locking surface ML3 is substantially co-extensive with the inflection surface Im3.
    [000130] It will be noted that the Pm protrusion is formed with a neck 48 which has reduced width compared to other parts of the Pm protrusion. It will be seen that surface Cm1 is adjacent to an outermost side of neck 48. In addition, a portion of inflection surface Im1 adjacent to abutment surface 24 forms the outermost side of neck 48. In addition, a portion of inflection surface Im1, adjacent to abutment surface 24, forms the outermost side of neck 48. inflection surface Im3 forms the opposite side of neck 48. In this embodiment, a shorter distance line 50 across neck 48 is slanted relative to main surface 14.
    [000131] The inflection surface Im3 leads to the surface 52 formed at the root 32 of the recess Rm. Surface 52 curves around to meet, and merge with inflection surface Im2. Surface Im2 generally extends in a D direction leading to surface 54 extending perpendicular to main surfaces 14 and 16 and subsequently to a chamfered surface 56 leading to main surface 16. The second male locking surface extends from above. from the inflection surface Im2 and along the chamfered surface 56 to the main surface 16.
    [000132] Observing the configuration of joint Jf from an opposite side of panel 12, it can be seen that surface Cf1 and corresponding inflection surface If1 generally extend in a direction D from abutment surface 26. The first female locking surface FL1 comprises the combination of surfaces 26 and If1. Inflection surface If1 leads to surface 46 at root 34 of recess Rf. The surface 46 forms a vertical detent surface for the Pm protrusion. In addition, surface 46 includes a substantially horizontal, centrally located face 58 that faces recess 42 when joint Jm is inserted into joint Jf. Face 58 is situated substantially parallel to main surfaces 14 and 16. Moving in a direction towards protrusion Pf, surface 46 leads to and incorporates another inflection surface If3 and corresponding third female locking surface FL3, with -extensive. The surfaces If3 and FL3 are surfaces shared between the recess Rf and the protrusion Pf and extend in a direction generally opposite to the D direction.
    [000133] The inflection surface If3 leads to an upper arcuate surface portion 60 of the projection Pf which, in turn, leads to the surface Cf2 and inflection surface If2. The inflection surface If2 leads to the flat surface 62 which extends perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. This surface, in turn, leads to the inclined surface 64, in turn, leads to the main surface 16. The second surface of female lock comprises the combination of surfaces If2, 62 and 64.
    [000134] The Rf recess is configured to receive the Pm protrusion. In addition, the recess Rf is formed with a neck 66. The neck forms a restricted opening into the recess Rf. A line 68 of shortest distance through the neck 66 is, in this embodiment, slanted relative to the main surfaces 14 and 16. More particularly, the line 66 is slanted at substantially the same angle as the line 50. The Pf protrusion, similar to the Pm protrusion. , is of a sphere-like or bulb-like configuration.
    [000135] Also, similar to the Pm protrusion, the Pf protrusion is formed with a neck 70 of reduced width. A shorter distance line 72 through neck 70 is slanted relative to main surfaces 14 and 16. However, in this embodiment, line 70 is slanted at a different angle to lines 50 and 68.
    [000136] Referring again to Figure 1b, it is also seen that the shared locking and inflection surfaces ML3 and FL3; and Im3 and If3, respectively, and more specifically their corresponding surfaces Cm3 and Cf3, are located relative to one another to form a third locking plane 74 along which the separation of slotted joints J is inhibited. The third locking plane 74 is parallel to and between innermost and outermost locking planes 18 and 20.
    [000137] The Jm and Jf joints are based, in part, on anatomical joints of the human body and, in particular, on the hip joint and humeral scapular joint. These Jm and Jf joints are configured to provide horizontal and vertical strength and to allow relative rotational movement for a limited extent, without disengaging. In effect, the Jm and Jf joints can be considered as hinge-type joints. Comparison with anatomical joints is improved in some modalities described hereinafter, which include a resealable, elastic, non-curable or non-settable flexible adhesive acting between the Jm and JF joints. In such modalities, the adhesive acts in a manner similar to both a tendon that allows relative movement but maintains the connection, and a cartilage that provides a cushioning effect. Also when wax is provided over the joints, it can act as a fluid in the joint that provides lubrication.
    [000138] It is further evident from Figure 1b that, due to their non-symmetrical nature, the joints Jm and Jf are relatively configured in such a way that, when they are nested, several spaces or interstices are formed between the nested joints. A space 76 is formed immediately below the abutment surfaces 24 and 26 and opposite surface Cf1. Space 76 can also be described as being a space formed between respective upper parts of inflection surfaces Im1 and If1. Space 78 is formed between undersides of inflection surfaces Im1 and If1. A space that generally extends vertically 80 is formed between the shared inflection surfaces Im3 and If3; and a generally horizontal space 82 is formed between the root 32 of the recess Rm and the arcuate surface portion 60 of the projection Pf. The spaces allow thermal expansion and thermal contraction of panels 12 without displacement or fracture of joints Jm and Jf as well as assist in the relative rotation of panels 12.
    [000139] The fit and disengagement of joints Jm and Jf will now be described in detail with reference to Figures 5a - 9f.
    [000140] Figure 5a represents a first panel 12a, which has already been placed, and a second panel 12b which is in the process of being installed. Panels 12a and 12b are supported on an underlying horizontal surface 90. Panel 12a has joint Jf that is open and ready for connection with joint Jm of panel 12b. Panel 12b is placed adjacent to panel 12a, with joint Jm resting on joint Jf. The edge of panel 12b provided with joint Jf is simply resting on surface 90 such that there is a small angle of approximately 1° - 3° between panels 12a and 12b.
    [000141] From Figure 5b it will be seen that, in this position, the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 rest on the surfaces Cf1 and Cf3, respectively, while the surfaces Cm2 and Cf2 are vertically separated. In this configuration, upper parts of surfaces Cf1 and Cf3 can be considered as eccentric detents, as they prohibit the entry of the projection Pm into the recess Rf.
    [000142] In order to begin engagement of surfaces Jm and Jf, a downward pressure or force F is applied in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and oriented towards the underlying surface 90. This pressure or force applies compression to the protrusion Pm e tensions the indentation Rf, which, depending on the material from which the panels 12 are made, will result in one or both of the protrusion Pm compressing and the indentation Rf opening or widening such that the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 can slide to later of surfaces Cf1 and Cf3. Again, the provision of wax over the Jm and Jf joints assists this sliding action. This results in the protrusion Pm sliding through the neck 66 into the recess Rf. The opening of the Rm and Rf recesses creates tension in the joints, as shown by the T lines in Figure 5c. This tension is around the curvature at the opposite ends of the root of each Rf and Rm indentation. The tension is relieved when the Pm and Pf protrusions pass through the necks of the Rf and Rm recesses, which provides a spring action closing the recesses over the protrusions and pulling the protrusions into the recesses. Thus, the recesses are able to elastically open and subsequently close on their own. This action occurs with the other modalities of the joint system, described later in the description.
    [000143] The joints, in this modality, are configured in such a way that the respective surfaces Cm and Cf that pass to each other do this at slightly different times. In this particular embodiment, surface Cm1 passes surface Cf1 marginally before surface Cm3 passes surface Cf3. Once surfaces Cm1, Cm3 have passed surfaces Cf1, Cf3, the remainder of the protrusion Pm is pulled into recess Rf by an overcenter or snap-on action. This is due to the relative configuration of the inflection surfaces and the compression relief in the protrusion Pm after surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 pass through surfaces Cf1 and Cf3. In effect, the respective necks 48 and 66 sit one inside the other.
    [000144] Simultaneously with the occurrence of this action, a similar action occurs in relation to the protrusion Pf and the indentation Rm. Surface Cm2 passes surface Cf2 marginally after passing surfaces Cm3 and Cf3. This is shown in Figure 5c. When the recess Rm is pushed onto the protrusion Pf, by the action of pressure or force directed downwards F, the protrusion Pf is compressed between the surfaces Cf3 and Cf2. After these surfaces pass the Cm3 and Cm2 surfaces, the Rf recess is pulled over the Pf protrusion by an on-center or snap-in action. Although the J-joints are mating by applying pressure or force in a vertical direction (ie, perpendicular to the main surfaces 14, 16), the relative motion between the J-joints is not uniquely vertical. On the contrary, there is a vertical movement combined with a lateral displacement. With reference to Figures 5b-5e and joint Jm, this lateral movement is the movement of joint Jm to the left and is highlighted by the closure in the interstice or horizontal separation G from the surface 24 and 26 during the snapping process. The horizontal gap G reduces from a maximum gap G1 in Figure 5b to progressively smaller gaps G2 and G3 and finally to a zero gap G4 in Figure 5e, in which case there is a face-to-face contact between the surfaces 24 and 26, when joints Jm and Jf are fully mated. Which of the Jm and Jf joints moves laterally is precisely dependent on which joint is least restricted from lateral movement. In fact, both could move laterally towards each other by an equal or different degree. This lateral movement is symptomatic of the vertical stability of the embedded joint system.
    [000145] Figure 5d illustrates the joints Jm and Jf marginally before the complete fit. Here, it can be seen that there is a small gap between the base of the projection Pm and the recess Rf and that the main surface 14 of panel 12b is marginally elevated relative to main surface 14 of panel 12a. Relative downward movement of panel 12b is stopped and the joint fully engaged when projection Pm impacts detent surface 58 over recess Rf, as shown in Figure 5e. In this configuration, reservoir 46 is formed between recess 42 and detent surface 58. In this configuration, surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cm3 on tongue Jm are located under corresponding surfaces Cf1, Cf2, Cf3 on tongue.
    [000146] The aforementioned ability of the joints Jm and Jf to allow both positive and negative relative rotation, without disengagement, is able to accommodate uneven surfaces. Additionally, the Jm and Jf joints facilitate the self-alignment of adjacent panels 12. These features substantially simplify installation to the extent that a versatile person of average domestic skill can easily install the panel incorporating the joint system modalities 10.
    [000147] The self-aligning aspect of system 10 appears from the shape and configuration of joints Jf and Jm and is explained with reference to Figures 5b, and 5f - 5k.
    [000148] Figure 5f shows a panel 12b being roughly positioned for subsequent engagement with panel 12a and prior to applying any downward force or pressure to engage the panels. Panels 12a and 12b are angled relative to one another. At one end 85, the protrusion Pm rests on top of the recess Rf. The corresponding cross-sectional view is as shown in Figures 5b and 5j with joint Jm of panel 12b lying on top of recess Rf of panel 12a. At the opposite end 87, the joints are spaced laterally. In the meantime, the degree of separation between Jm and Jf joints varies linearly. Thus, at location AA, joints Jm and Jf are in contact, but protrusion Pm partially rests on protrusion Pf and is located partially on recess Rf and the panels separated by a distance X1 , shown in Figure 5i. However, at a location further away from BB along the panels, protrusion Pm is situated directly above and over protrusion Pf and the panels are separated by a greater distance X2, shown in Figure 5h.
    [000149] Now a pressure or downward force F is applied at a location between locations 85 and BB to begin mating the gaskets and panels. This force is transmitted between the panels by the length along which they are in contact, ie essentially between locations 85 and BB. At most points along this length, the protrusion Pf is to the left of the apex of the protrusion Pf and at least partially overhangs the recess f. It will also be recognized that, due to the curvature of the surfaces Cm3 and Cf3, there will be a natural tendency for the protrusion Pf to be pulled into the recess Rf.
    [000150] Consequently, the force F, when transmitted to the contact surfaces of the Jm and Jf joints, will initially decompose into components that include a lateral (transverse) component that acts to propel the Jf joint into the recess and thus the panel 12b toward panel 12a. Consequently, the distance between the panels at the end 87 closes. When the force application site is advanced along panel 12b towards end 87, this closing effect continues until, at end 87, protrusion Pm rests above recess Rf, as shown in Figure 5j, and the panels are completely aligned, as shown in Figure 5k. Thus, the panels self-align under the application of downward snapping force. Naturally, if the force F is sufficient, then, in addition to self-alignment, the joints Jm and Jf will also fit completely together, as shown in Figure 5k. The self-aligning effect combined with the snapping of the Jm and Jf joints produces a zipper-like effect, similar to a quick-fit locking pouch.
    [000151] It should also be understood that floors are often under dynamic tensile and compression loads due to variations in temperature and humidity. They are also under static charge from furniture or other household items. If the tensile load exceeds the load-bearing capacity of the joints, one or both of the Pm and Pf protrusions may fracture or shear. This has several effects. This will release tension in the immediate vicinity of the floor. In addition, it will result in a horizontal separation across the fractured panel, producing a visible gap. Furthermore, depending on the prevailing conditions and circumstances, a vertical displacement of one of the adjacent panels may also occur, resulting in a height difference.
    [000152] Once this tension has been relieved, it may be extremely difficult, if not virtually impossible, to reconnect the undocked panel or completely connect a new panel. This is because the panels on the opposite sides of the fracture, which are still under tension, are being pulled and will move away from each other. To restore the floor to its original state, both sides must be pulled together. If someone merely places a new panel in the space of the previous panel, then the gap will remain. This leaves the homeowner with the only option of using an unsightly padding to perfect the gap caused by the separation. This, in turn, is likely to have a negative impact on the property's value. The self-aligning aspect of the joint system 10 also facilitates the self-retensioning of, namely, a floor, in the replacement of damaged panels, as described below.
    [000153] Stress relief, subsequent movement of panels and self-retensioning are described in more detail in Figures 5l - 5u. Figure 5l illustrates a floor composed of a plurality of panels 12. Two of the panels 12a and 12b are being removed and replaced. Assume there is tension between panels 12 as described in the preceding paragraph. Once the two panels 12a and 12b are removed, leaving an interstice 31, there is naturally a stress relief in the floor in the area of interstice 31. Consequently, panels 12 adjacent to the interstice will shift away from each other, as shown by arrows 33 in Figure 5m. The effect of this is to produce a widening of the gap 31. This widening is illustrated in Figure 5n, and in enlarged view in Figure 5o, and occurs as an additional longitudinal brace 35 along an abutment line which previously existed between the panels 12a and 12b before its removal. This widening not only occurs within the gap 31, there will also be a separation or at least an increase in tension between the remaining adjacent panels here along a continuation of the strap 35, as there are now fewer panels to accommodate the tension. Figure 5p and corresponding enlarged view of Figure 5q illustrate the effect of replacing panels with panels having conventional placement or horizontal locking systems. New panels 12a1 and 12b1 are inserted into gap 31 and mated with adjacent panels on each side. However, due to the widening of the gap 31, the newly installed panels 12a1 and 12b1 cannot be fully fitted together. The flare can only be on the order of 0.5 to 2 mm, but this is enough to be easily visible over a floor.
    [000154] Commonly, in the case, for example, of a locking system of the tongue and slot type, the tongue will be sawn in such a way that there is no mechanical union between the panels 12a1 and 12b1. A filler will be used to fill strip 35 between panels 12a1 and 12b1. Significantly, the filler is unable to transfer voltage across panels 12a1 and 12b1. Consequently, it is not possible to re-establish tension within the floor as a whole. The tension within the floor will now act on opposite sides of the infill and strip 35. Over time, this is likely to lead to fracture of the infill and the creation of a new interstice 37, shown in Figure 5r and the corresponding enlarged view of Figure 5s, between panels 12a1 and 12b1.
    [000155] Figure 5t and the enlarged view of Figure 5u show the result in the use of panels or substrates that incorporate joint systems according to the embodiments of the present invention. That is, assume that all of the panels 12 in Figures 5l-5s are provided with, viz., the joint system 10. When the panels 12a and 12b are removed, there is still a widening of the gap 31 by creating the strip 35 New panel 12a1 is installed and mated with panels 12c and 12d. Now, panel 12b1 is inserted with, viz., its socket joint Jf under the tongue joint Jm of panel 12a1 and the tongue joint Jm of panel 12b1 lying on top of the socket joint Jf of adjacent panels 12e and 12f.
    [000156] Applying downward pressure on the male joint of panel 12a1 where it overlies the joint Jf of panel 12b1. This results in these gaskets and corresponding panels snapping together. This will cause panel 12b1 to move slightly away from panels 12e and 12f. However, this movement does not cause a separation greater than the distance X2 shown in Figure 5h. By now applying downward pressure on male joint Jm of panel 12b1, panels 12b1 and 12e and 12f are pulled towards each other. Furthermore, the panels on either side of an interface 39 between panels 12a1 and 12b1 are pulled inward towards each other, as shown by arrows 33 in Figures 5t and 5u. Also, the Jm and Jf joints of panels 12b1; and, 12e and 12f are snapped together and the entire tread thus re-tensioned and structural integrity restored.
    [000157] The above describes the situation in which the floor is under tension. However, problems also arise in prior art systems when a floor is under compression, in which case a closure may occur in gap 31. With prior art systems one must cut the panels to reduce their width to fit into the closed gap. Consequently, there will be no complete mechanical joint between newly installed panels and existing panels. Structural integrity is lost. Embodiments of the present invention may operate in essentially the same manner as described above with reference to Figures 51-5u, but in "reverse" to push the gap open and mechanically engage all adjacent panels 12 to restore full structural integrity. Again, this will be effective for the interstice until approximately the lateral extends from the Cf1 surface, which can vary up to about 2 mm.
    [000158] The above self-alignment and "zipper" effects also apply when a panel is warped or twisted around its length. Modalities of the joint system allow a warped panel to be aligned and pulled in, which has the effect of flattening the warp or twisting on the panel, provided that the panel to which it is being fitted is flat and is not self warped or twisted .
    [000159] When fitting the Jm and Jf joints, downward pressure can be applied by a person weighing approximately 70 kilograms or more, who crosses the Jm joints, by means of a small jump or jumping on one leg or with a small trampling movement. In this way, the joining or joining of adjacent panels 12 can be achieved, without the need to constantly kneel and stand, as is required with prior art systems. Fitting the Jm joint to the Jf joint can also be aided by light tapping with an M rubber hammer. Ease of installation not only greatly expands the range of do-it-yourself installers by reducing skill and strength level required; it also has significant benefits for all installers, including professionals, through the minimization of physical strain and effort. For an employer or installation company, this reduces injuries and sick leave for workers.
    [000160] Consequently, workers are able to work for a longer period and have high income and insurance premiums and claims for compensation against the employer may be reduced.
    [000161] When panels 12 with the joint system 10 are used over a large area, such as, for example, in commercial premises, a modified compactor can be used to apply force or pressure to the joint joints Jm and Jf. The compactor is designed to be similar in shape to those used for compaction used to compact sand before laying pavements, but that it has a soft, scratch-proof base coat. The liner can comprise, but is not limited to, a rubber, foam, felt, or cardboard sheet. The process of removing a damaged panel will now be described with particular reference to Figures 6a - 9f. As will be evident from the following description of the process of removing a damaged bead panel with the relative rotation allowed between the joined panels due to the configuration of the joint system 10. Figures 6a - 6s represent, in sequence, various steps in removal and replacement of a damaged panel. Removal and replacement is facilitated through the use of an extraction system comprising, in combination, a connector 92 shown in Figures 7a and 7b and a wedge tool 94 shown in Figures 8a and 8b.
    [000162] Connector 92 is a simple thumbscrew connector that is applied to a panel being removed. The screw connector 92 is provided with an elongated threaded rod 96 provided at one end with a crossbar handle 98. The thread of rod 96 is fitted within a threaded shoulder 100 formed in an attachment plate 102. Plate 102 is of a square shape with shoulder 100 located centrally on plate 102. Shoulder 100 is located over a through hole in plate 102, through which shaft 96 can extend. Distributed around plate 102 are four through holes 104 for receiving respective fastening screws 106.
    [000163] The wedge tool 94 comprises a wedge block 108 coupled at one end to a handle 110. The wedge block 108 is formed with a base surface 112 which, in use, will bear against the surface over the to which panels 12 are installed, and an opposing surface 114 which is located under and contacts a main surface 16 of panel 12 adjacent to the panel being removed. The surface 114 includes the relatively sloping portion 116 and a parallel face 118. The sloping portion 116 extends from a leading edge 120 of the wedge block 108 toward the handle 110. The surface 116 is slanted relative to the surface 112, while face 118 is located parallel to surface 112 and is formed contiguously with surface 116. Handle 110 is curved such that a free end 122 of handle 110 is located parallel with, but laterally displaced from, a distal end 124 which is connected with wedge block 108.
    [000164] Figure 6a represents a floor area that includes a damaged panel 12b that is connected along each side with adjacent panels 12. For the purpose of describing the method of replacing damaged panel 12b, reference will be made to only two of connected panels 12a and 12c, which fit along opposite longitudinal sides of panel 12b. The three side-by-side interlocking panels 12a, 12b and 12c are each provided with an embodiment of the joint system 10 and cover the surface 90, as shown in Figure 6b. Center panel 12b has a main surface 14 that is damaged due to a scratch, nick or water damage 126. It should also be understood that unless one of panels 12a or 12c is immediately adjacent to a wall, then other panels 12 will be interlocked with each of panels 12a and 12c.
    [000165] In order to replace the damaged panel 12b, a rig 130 (see Figure 6d) is used to drill a hole 128 through panel 12b for each connector 92 used in the extraction process. Hole 128 is formed of a diameter sufficient to allow passage of rod 96. The length of panel 12b being removed determines the number of connectors 92 that may be required. Thus, in some cases, extraction may be carried out using a connector 92, while in others, two or more connectors may be required. In this particular case, two connectors 92 are used, as shown in Figure 6c, but, for ease of description, the extraction process refers to only one of the connectors 92.
    [000166] At the completion of hole 128, fastening plate 102 is placed over panel 12b with its shoulder 100 situated over hole 128, as shown in Figure 6e. Plate 102 is secured to panel 12b by means of four self-tapping screws 106 which pass through corresponding holes 104. This is illustrated in Figure 6f. The screws can be screwed in by a DIY battery operated screwdriver or using a manual screwdriver.
    [000167] The next stage in the removal process is shown in Figures 6g and 6h and involves engaging rod 96 with threaded shoulder 100 and then screwing down rod 96 by using handle 98 to lift panel 12b above of surface 90. It should be immediately recognized that this action requires the relative rotation of joints Jm and Jf of panel 12b, maintaining their engagement with joints of adjacent panels 12a and 12c. This rotation is a negative rotation, as will be explained shortly. However, at the same time, there is also positive rotation of the joints between the mated panels on each side of panels 12a and 12c opposite panel 12b.
    [000168] Connector 92 is operated to lift damaged panel 12b vertically upwards a sufficient distance to effect negative rotation between damaged panel 12b and adjacent joined panels 12a and 12c. Negative rotation is on the order of 7° - 10th. This is explained with particular reference to Figure 6h, which shows an angle è1 between the main surfaces 14 of panels 12a and 12b; and an angle è2 between the main surfaces 14 of panels 12b and 12c. Before lifting panel 12d, it should be understood that angles θ1 and θ2 will be 180°, assuming surface 90 is flat. The formation of a negative angle between the joined panels 12 is indicative of the angle exceeding 180°. The amount by which angles θ1 and θ2 exceed 180° during snapping out is equaled to the negative rotation of the panels during this process. For example, if the angle θ1 is, viz., 187°, then the relative negative rotation between panels 12a and 12b is 70.
    [000169] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that vertical elevation of any prior art system that has a lateral projection (e.g., a tongue) that sits in a groove or recess of an adjacent panel is virtually impossible without breaking the tongue or fracturing the panel with the groove. Thus, this action, if attempted with a prior art system, is very likely to result in damage to one or more panels that were not previously damaged or in the need for replacement.
    [000170] The ability of panels incorporating modalities of the present joint system to be removed by lifting or vertical lifting is a direct result and consequence of the joint system. This provides a panel placement undocking process that is directly opposite to the prior art, which requires an over-remove undocking process. As a consequence of the joint system and the ability to disengage without damaging adjacent panels by lifting or vertically lifting, repairing a floor can be achieved in a best-practice manner in the world, completely restoring the integrity of the floor, without the need from ripping out the entire floor from a wall to the damaged area, and/or fitting by a professional installer.
    [000171] Connector 92 mechanically lifts and self supports panel 12b, panels 12a, 12c and panels adjacent to panels 12a and 12c. Thus, the installer does not need to rely on his own strength to lift and hold the panels. In contrast, some prior art systems use suction cups, for example, as used by glaziers to retain sheets of glass to secure a panel to be removed. The installer must then use their strength to lift the panel. While this is difficult enough, it becomes impossible if the panel is also glued to surface 90. Connector 92 which provides a mechanical advantage is capable of operating in these circumstances. In addition, when the auto connector supports panels 12, the installer is free to use both hands in the repair process and, more specifically, is free to walk away from the immediate vicinity of panel 12b.
    [000172] Connector 92 is operated to elevate panel 12b vertically upwards to a location where the negative rotation between panel 12b and adjacent panels 12a and 12c is in the order of 7° to 10°. This is the position shown in Figure 6h and 9d. In this position, there is partial displacement of joints Jm and Jf between panels 12a and 12b. This partial displacement appears from surface Cm1 rolling over surface Cf1 with surface 38 mating past the apex of surface Cf1 and is denoted by an audible "click". Despite this displacement, the panels remain interlocked due to the constriction of the protrusion Pf between surfaces Cm2 and Cm3.
    [000173] Connector 92 may be provided with a scale to provide an installer with an indication of when negative rotation is in the order of 7° to 10°. The scale could comprise, for example, a colored strip of rod 96, which becomes visible above shoulder 100 when the rod has been screwed down to raise the panel sufficiently to create the aforementioned negative rotation. Several strips could be provided on the rod for panels of different thickness.
    [000174] To disengage panel 12b, one must first disengage or disengage either panel 12a or 12c that has its female joint Jf fitted with panel 12b. In this case, this is panel 12a. When performing the above work on panels 12, an installer will not immediately recognize that this is panel 12a. However, this can easily be determined by: or tapping both panels 12a and 12c; or, apply slight manual pressure and feel the joint movement. Due to the orientation of the joints, this knock will result in panel 12a fitting completely into the vicinity of the knocks. Then, as shown in Figure 6i, applying downward force or pressure on panel 12a at other locations along its length will result in complete disengagement of joints Jm and Jf on panels 12a and 12b.
    [000175] The interaction between the respective surfaces on the joints Jm and Jf in panels 12a and 12b from the position where the panels are fully mated and lie in the same plane, as shown in Figure 6f, to the disengagement point shown in Figure 6h will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 9a - 9e.
    [000176] Figure 9a illustrates panels 12a and 12b prior to connector 92 operation. This equates to the relative juxtaposition of the panels shown in Figures 6a, 6b, and 6d-6g. When connector 92 is operated to progressively lift panel 12b from surface 90, there is a gradual rotation between respective joints Jm and Jf. Figure 9b illustrates joint Jm of panel 12b and joint Jf of panel 12a at approximately -2° relative rotation. Here, abutment surfaces 24 and 26 begin to separate with surface Cm1 and in particular ridge 38 starting to rise on surface Cf1. Simultaneously, the surface 40 of the projection Pm starts to rise from the surface 46 of the recess f. There is also now a slight increase in the separation between the upper portions of the inflection surfaces and Im3 and If3. Finally, surface Cm2 descends to surface Cf2.
    [000177] Figure 9c shows the effect of continued lifting of panel 9b to a position in which the relative negative rotation between panels 12a and 12b is approximately 5o. Here, the separation between abutment surfaces 24 and 26 is more pronounced and the surface Cm1 and in particular the ridge 38 are situated higher on the surface Cf1, but it is not yet disengaged from the surface Cf1. There is an increase in the separation between surfaces 40 and 46, and the Cm2 surface is now firmly seated in a deeper portion of the concavity on the If2 inflection surface. This is pressure/increasing force exerted by: the surface Cm2 on the neck of the protrusion Pf; and, the surface Cm1 on the surface Cf1.
    [000178] Continued operation of connector 92 further increases the angle between panels 12a and 12b to approximately -7o, as shown in Figure 9d. At this point, surface Cm1 and crest 38 have now moved past surface Cf1 and lie outside neck 66 of recess Rf. This would commonly be indicated to the installer by an audible "click". However, surface Cm3 is embedded by and below surface Cf3; and the Cf2 surface is below the Cf2 surface. More particularly, the Pf protrusion is now being compressed or constricted on opposite sides by surfaces Cm3 and Cm2. Thus, while in this arrangement of -7o, the joints Jm and Jf are still partially engaged and, in the absence of any external force, maintain the vertical and horizontal locking of panels 12a and 12b. Also, during the rotation of the joints Jm and Jf up to -7o, the rotation of the surface Cm2 acts as a support, raising the projection Pm from the recess Rf.
    [000179] Applying a downward pressure or force on panel 12a results in one or both of: compression of the projection Pf; or, opening the neck of the indentation Rm formed by the surfaces Cm3 and Cm2 to allow the projection Pf to escape from the indentation Rm. Wax in the joint will reduce friction and now assists in the disengagement of the joints. Panel 12a is now free to fall back to surface 90, as shown in Figure 9f and Figure 6i. Thus, at this point in time, panels 12a and 12b are completely disengaged. However, removal of panel 12b also requires disengaging gasket Jf of panel 12b from gasket Jm of panel 12c. This process is shown in Figures 6j to 6l.
    [000180] Immediately after disengaging panels 12a and 12b, panel 12b is held above surface 90 by connector 92. To continue the replacement process, panel 12b is lowered back to surface 90 by unscrewing shaft 96a from shoulder 100 of anchor plate 102. An installer then grips and lifts gasket Jm of panel 12b to insert wedge tool 94 between disengaged gaskets of panels 12a and 12b and pushes it to a position where the face 118 of surface 114 is in contact with main surface 16 of panel 12c and within joints Jm and Jf. This is shown in Figure 6j. Disengaging panel 12b from panel 12c is now accomplished by initially rotating panel 12b approximately -7° to -10° to effect a disengagement of surface Cm1 of panel 12c from surface Cf1 at joint Jf of panel 12b. Wedge tool 94 is configured to assist the installer in achieving this rotation. This is also shown in Figure 6j. Furthermore, when wedge block 108 is below bottom panel 12c slightly inside its joint Jm and panel 12b is rotated counterclockwise towards handle 110, panel 12b will rotate or pivot by 7° to 10° before, or as soon as, it touches the handle 110. Reaching this position is commonly denoted by an audible "click" when surface Cm1 passes from below to above surface Cf1. This juxtaposition of the Jm and Jf joints is as shown in Figure 9d.
    [000181] The subsequent application of pressure or downward force for example by means of the rubber hammer M, as shown in Figure 6k, will result in the total disengagement of joints Jf and Jm of panels 12b and 12c, respectively, as shown in Figure 6l . The damaged panel 12b is now fully disengaged from both adjacent panels 12a and 12c and can be removed.
    [000182] To replace the damaged panel 12b with a new panel 12b1, an installer now removes wedge tool 94, lifts the edge of panel 12c by hand and slides a new panel 12b1 under raised panel 12c such that , joint Jm is located above joint Jf. The opposite side of panel 12b1 rests on panel 12a. This sequence of events is shown in Figures 6m-6p.
    [000183] The installer now lowers panel 12c onto panel 12b1. When this occurs, male joint Jm of panel 12c rests on neck 48 of female joint Jf of panel 12bi; and joint Jm of panel 12b1 will rest on neck 48 of joint Jf of previously placed panel 12a. This is shown in Figure 6q.
    [000184] To fully engage panel 12b1, downward force or pressure is applied to tongue joints Jm of panels 12c and 12b1. This can be done in any order, ie panel 12c then panel 12b1 or panel 12b1 then panel 12c. Figure 6q shows the configuration when the Jm joint of panel 12c is first mated with joint Jf of panel 12b1. Figure 6r represents joint Jm of panel 12b1 now mated with joint Jf of panel 12a, restoring the floor as shown in Figure 6s. The joint system's self-aligning properties, as described above with reference to Figures 5f-5k, will operate during this process if the panels are initially misaligned. The ability to easily remove and replace only panels 12 that are damaged, rather than tearing the entire floor out, has enormous practical, commercial and environmental benefits. These are summarized as follows:
    [000185] Panels can be easily replaced by workers of limited skill and with very rudimentary and low-cost equipment. This avoids the need to hire professional installers.
    [000186] The repair is also relatively clean as there is no need to chisel or cut panels or parts thereof.
    [000187] As only the damaged panels need to be replaced, there is no need to move furniture, which in itself is often difficult and inconvenient.
    [000188] From the dealer's point of view, there is the initial benefit, in that the seller must encourage the buyer to buy a little larger quantity of panels than required, to cover a given area, to provide spare panels in the case of damage. For example, the dealer would explain the benefits of purchasing, namely, an additional one to three square meters of panels. This is much the same when, namely, a new house is under construction and the builder leaves additional floors and shingles or paint in reserve for the purpose of repair. An important issue with damaged floor repair is that obtaining identical panels several years after installation is difficult. If identical panels cannot be found, it can happen that an entire floor level will need to be replaced even though only a small number (eg two or three) panels are damaged. For example, namely, the ground floor of a house has three bedrooms, an entrance courtyard, kitchen and family rooms, all to be clad in wooden floor panels of the same appearance, forming a common floor. The selection and decor of furniture throughout the house is often selected to match the floor. In such cases, when matching replacement panels are not available, the entire ground level floor may need to be replaced. In fact, this occurred on a large scale floor due to a strange storm in Perth, Western Australia, in March 2010. A much more common cause for this is excessive hours of water spillage from refrigerators with water dispensers . When a small replacement panel supply is on hand, the need for large-scale floor replacement is avoided. A new and growing market for wood flooring is using a relatively inexpensive and plentiful material for the panel and the use of a bubble jet printer to print a pattern, for example, wood grain from exotic trees on the main surface. top 12. It will be appreciated that these patterns can be very complex and the attempt to rectify a scratch through the use of a pen is virtually impossible. Again, a small supply of additional panels made with the initial purchase of the floor can potentially save thousands of dollars. A similar situation applies with a wooden floor that uses a relatively inexpensive and plentiful material and is stained on its main surface to mimic the appearance of a more exotic and expensive squared wood. The commercial consequence of complete floor replacements as described above should not be underestimated. This is often done at the expense of insurance companies. This naturally has a knocking effect as insurance premiums rise and shareholder dividends decrease. There are also timing issues where insurance companies may not be able to have the damage assessed and therefore rectified for months.
    [000189] Now consider the environmental aspects. Typically, wooden floor panels are coated with polyurethane or other sealants. Also, they can support adhesives and glues. This often prevents the destruction of damaged boards through incineration due to the generation of toxic gases. Consequently, they must face filling.
    [000190] The joint 10 depicted in Figures 1-9f is representative of one of a large number of possible embodiments. A small selection of other possible modalities will now be described. In describing these modalities, the same system of reference will be used as for joint 10, however each specific modality of the joint will be demarcated by adding the alphabetical suffix, eg, "a, b, c".
    [000191] Figures 10a and 10b represent a second embodiment of a joint system 10a incorporated in a substrate 12. The joint system 10a comprises a male joint Jm and female joint Jf along opposite sides. It can be seen that the joint system 10a is of the same general configuration as the joint system 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2. In particular, male joint Jm comprises male locking surfaces ML1, ML2, ML3; inflection surfaces Im1, Im2, and Im3; as well as the Cm1, Cm2, and Cm3 surfaces. Likewise, the female joint Jf is provided with female locking surfaces FL1, FL2, FL3; inflection surfaces If1, If2, If3 and surfaces Cf1, Cf2 and Cf3. The relative locations of interlocking surfaces, inflection surfaces and surfaces for the joint system 10a are generally the same as for the joint system 10. However, there are subtle differences in the specific shape and depth of the surfaces. In particular, the surface Cm1 on the joint 10a is continuously curved, rather than being provided with the crest 38 of the joint system 10. In addition, the conjugate inflection surfaces Im1 and If1 are shallower, such that the spaces 76 and 78 around the locking plane 18 are smaller than those for the joint system 10. This can be seen by comparing Figure 10b and Figure 1b. Furthermore, there is a reduction in the depth of the inflection surfaces Im3 and If3 to the extent that exists in the space equivalent to the space 80 of the joint system 10. It can also be seen that the inflection surfaces Im2 and If2 in the joint system 10a are shallower than mating surfaces in joint system 10, resulting in less overlap on surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 when joints Jm and Jf of adjacent panels 12 are mated.
    [000192] The joint system 10a can be used in the same circumstances and with the same materials as with system 10. However, due to the slightly shallower depth of the inflection surfaces I, the joint system 10a is suitable for more rigid substrates , such as, but not limited to, bamboo, where the compressibility of the projections Pm and Pf2 when passing through the necks of the corresponding recesses Rm and Rf may be limited.
    [000193] Figures 11a to 11d represent another modality of the joint system 10b provided on opposite sides of the substrate 12. The substantive differences between the joint systems 10b and 10 lie in: (a) the configuration of the immediate inflection surfaces Im3 and If3; and, (b) removing the concave recess 42 from the projection Pm and forming a similar recess 42f on the surface 58 of the recess f.
    [000194] In general, inflection surfaces Im3 and If3 are "angulated" in that they are not smoothly or continuously curved over their entire length. Specifically, the surface Cm3 (which forms part of the inflection surface Im3) is provided with a narrow ridge 140 similar to the ridge 38 depicted on the protrusion Pm of the joint system 10. In addition, the inflection surface Im3 is provided with a tooth "V" shaped gear 142 extending toward the root 52 of recess R. In female joint Jf, surface Cf3 is sharpened to form a narrow crest 144. As shown in Figure 11b, the apex 145 of the tooth of gear 142 rests against surface Cf3 below crest 144 when joints Jm and Jf are fitted.
    [000195] The purpose and effect of the variation in configuration of the inflection surfaces Im3 and If3, and in particular the provision of gear 142 and variations in the configuration of the surfaces Cf3 and Cm3 are to allow a greater relative rotation of up to 5o to 10 ° or more of joined panels, maintaining the fit to assist installation on undulating surfaces. This is shown in Figures 11c and 11d. The ability to increase the degree of rotation is more pronounced in the positive or upward direction of the mated male panel 12b relative to panel 12a. This is facilitated by the surface Cm3 bearing against the surface of the protrusion Pf in the recess Rf after the apex 145 of the gear tooth 142 has passed over the crest 144. As a consequence, the protrusion Pf remains constrained between the surfaces Cm3 and Cm2, thus maintaining the horizontal and vertical fit. The joint system 10b allows a panel to rise with respect to an adjacent horizontal panel to, namely, a raised crossing or floor finish piece.
    [000196] Figures 12a and 12b represent another embodiment of the joint system 10c incorporated in a substrate 12. The joint systems 10c and 10 differ in substance with regard to their aspect ratios. The joint system 10c can be used for thinner substrates than for the joint system 10. As there is less thickness or depth in the substrate 12, the tongue and female joints Jm and Jf of the joint system 10c are shallower, however wider. This is most notable by a visual comparison between the protrusion Pm and the recess Rf of the joint systems 10c and 10. In the joint 10c, the protrusion Pm is wider and provided with a flatter base surface 42 which is the recess Rf. The widening of the Pm protrusion is also the sharpening effect of the Cm3 profile. However, the method of operation and effect of the joint system 10c are the same as for the joint system 10. In particular, the remaining three vertical locking planes 18, 20 and 74 and respective substrates 12 are able to rotate by up to 3 degrees in opposite directions in relation to each other.
    [000197] Figures 13a and 13b represent another modality of the joint system 10d applied to a substrate 12. The substantive differences between the joint system 10d and 10 are located in the depth and relative disposition of the intermediate inflection surfaces Im3 and If3; and the width of the protrusions P and recesses R. in the joint system 10d, the inflection surfaces Im3 and If3 are shallower and are slanted more towards the horizontal, that is, towards a plane that contains main surfaces 14 and 16. As a consequence, when tongue and groove joints Jm and Jf are mated, only inner and outer locking planes 18 and 20 are created; the third locking plane 74 that appears with the previous modalities of the joint system is absent. In the 10d joint system, there is no point on the inflection surface Im3 that is vertically below and laterally within a point on the inflection surface If3. Also, the P protrusions and R recesses are wider in the 10d joint system. This provides greater horizontal shear strength along the S1 and S2 shear planes that pass through the Pm and Pf protrusions parallel to the main surfaces 14 and 16. This is beneficial with thinner panels (eg, 7 mm3 mm ), which are otherwise susceptible to shear along planes S1 and S2. Notwithstanding this, the joint system 10d operates in substantially the same way as the joint systems 10-10c, in that it is a vertical system and adjacent substrates 12 can rotate by 3 degrees relative to one another without disengaging.
    [000198] Figures 14a and 14b illustrate another embodiment of the joint system 10e applied to a substrate 12. The joint system 10e incorporates the same basic concepts as the joint system 10 and in particular has locking, inflection and extending surfaces transversely extremes (or internal or more external), which form respective locking planes 18 and 20 and allow the relative rotation between the male and female joints Jf and Jm of the joined substrates 12. Also, as with all modalities, the system of joints 10e is a vertical system, in which the joints are fitted by applying a force or pressure in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. However, as is easily evident from a comparison between the joint system 10e and the system of joints 10, there are numerous differences in the specific configuration of the projections P and recesses R in the male and female joints Jf and Jr.
    [000199] Starting with the tongue joint Jm, in the system 10e, there is a chamfered surface 146 between the main surface 14 and the lateral surface 24. In addition, between the lateral surface 24 and the inflection Im1, the joint system 10e comprises a right angle notch 148. The protrusion Pm is more symmetrical than in the joint system 10 and is provided with a central slot 150 which extends in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. Additionally, the surface 40 of the protrusion Pm is flat , rather than being arched. Slot 150 provides the Pm protrusion with a degree of resilience. This resilience is not for mating the protrusion Pm with the recess Rf, but rather provides resilience to assist the rotation of the protrusion Pm within the recess Rf.
    [000200] The Pf protrusion is more rounded than the corresponding Pf protrusion in system 10 and is also provided with a central slot 152 that extends parallel to the slot 150. The slot 152 also provides resiliency for the Pf protrusion to assist in its rotation inside the Rm socket. The surface 58 at the root 34 of the recess Rf is flat and is located parallel to the main surfaces 14 and 16 and also parallel to the surface 40. A square shoulder 154 is formed between the inflection surface If1 and the side surface 26 in the female joint Jf . Shoulder 154 engages notch 148 when joints Jf and Jm are mated as shown in Figure 14b. Another difference in the configuration of the joint system 10e is the provision of an inclined surface 156 between the inflection surface Im2 and the chamfered surface 56 in the joint Jm.
    [000201] It will be seen from Figure 14b that the joint system 10e has three vertical locking planes 18, 20 and 74 as in the joint system 10. A space 158 is created between surfaces 40 and 58 when the tongue is the tongue Jm is fitted with the Jf female joint. This space can be used in the same way as the empty space 44 shown in Figure 1b for collecting debris.
    [000202] Figures 15a and 15b represent another modality of a joint system 10f incorporated in a substrate 12. In the joint system 10f, the tongue and female joints Jm and Jf are shallower and more square than those in the system 10. The tongue joint Jm comprises an inflection surface If1 and corresponding surface Cm1 on an outermost surface and an inflection surface Im2 and corresponding surface Cm2 on an innermost surface. There is also an intermediate surface Cm3, but no intermediate inflection surface Im3. The female joint Jf is formed with: surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 on the inner and outer surfaces of the joint, respectively; and, an If2 inflection surface. However, the joint system 10f does not include an intermediate If3 inflection surface nor an If2 inflection surface on the outermost surface of the female joint.
    [000203] Projections P and recesses R in joint system 10f are flatter than those in joint system 10. This provides better shear strength than in joint system 10d.
    [000204] When substrates 12 incorporated in the joint system 10f are fitted together, two locking planes 18 and 20 are created by surfaces Cf1 and Cm1; and Cf2 and Cm2, respectively. An "almost" intermediate locking plane is formed by the provision of flat surfaces 25 and 27 at the Pm and Pf protrusions, respectively. Surfaces 25 and 27 are perpendicular to main surface 14. When joints Jm and Jf are mated together, surfaces 25 and 27 abut each other. This provides frictional lock against relative movement between joints Jm and Jf in the vertical plane. This provides an effect similar to, but to a lesser degree, locking plane 74 in joint system 10f. Vertical detent between bonded substrates 12 is created by abutting surface 40 of projection Pm with surface 58 in recess Rf.
    [000205] Another difference in the configuration between the 10f and 10 joint systems is the omission in the 10f joint system of chamfered surfaces 56 and 64, which lead from surfaces 50 and 62, respectively, to the main surface 16. Thus , in the joint system 10f, the surfaces 54 and 66 extend directly from the respective surfaces Cm2 and Cf2 to the main surface 16.
    [000206] Figures 16a and 16b represent another system of joints 10g that is suitable for panels made of plastic materials, such as a vinyl or other relatively soft/flexible materials. In the joint system 10g, a plurality of inflection surfaces or transversely extending surfaces are formed, comprising one or more flat surfaces. However, in each of the end locking planes 18 and 20, there remains at least one arcuate surface that extends transversely outward to facilitate a rolling movement that allows rotation between the joint panels 12. More specifically, it can be seen that the projection Pm in the joint system 10f comprises a first locking surface ML1 and that it has abutment surface 24 and adjoining inflection surface Im1. Inflection surface Im1 includes a flat, inwardly sloping surface 160 depending from surface 24 and an additional flat surface 162 that extends parallel to surface 24 and is contiguous with surface 160. Then, inflection surface Im1 incorporates an arcuate surface or a smoothly curved Cm1. The surface Cm1 leads to a flat base surface 40 of the projection Pm, which is situated in a plane parallel to the main surfaces 14 and 16. The surface 40 is contiguous to an intermediate and smoothly curved surface Cm3. However, the concave recess 42 of previous embodiments has been replaced by a slot 163 which is located perpendicular to the main surface 14. The slot 163 provides the Pm projection with an increased ability to compress within the recess m to facilitate rotation while within the indentation Rm.
    [000207] Extending from surface Cm3 is an inclined flat surface 164, which leads to a flat surface 52 of recess Rm. The surface 52 is located parallel to the main surfaces 14. The flat surface 164 and the surface Cm3 together form the intermediate inflection surface Im3 and the third male locking surface ML3. This is provided with a sharp corner where surface 164 meets surface Cm3. The innermost surface ML2 of the tongue Jm includes an angular inflection surface Im2 and flat surface 56. The inflection surface Im2 comprises adjoining flat surfaces 166 and 168, which are angled relative to one another to form an angular or sharp corner, but usually concave, in the Rm. The inflection surface Im2 further comprises another flat surface 170 which extends perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. This surface then joins the chamfered surface 56, which leads to the main surface 16.
    [000208] Female joint Jf has first female locking surface FL1 comprising abutment surface 26 extending perpendicular to main surface 14 and adjoining inflection surface If1. The inflection surface If1 is composed of the flat surface 72 which slopes towards the recess Rf, the flat surface 174 which is parallel to the surface 26 and a gently curved concave surface 176, which leads to the surface 58 at the root of the recess Rf. Surfaces 172, 174 and upper portion of surface 176 together form the transversely extending surface in the form of a generally convex cam Cf1. The surface 58 at the root 34 of the recess Rf is flat and parallel to the main surface 14. The female joint Jf then comprises an intermediate surface If3 which can be considered to be an inverted shape of the inflection surface Im3. To this end, inflection surface If3 comprises flat surface 180 which is inclined in a direction towards main surface 14, and a contiguous smoothly curved surface Cf3. The surface Cf3 joins the flat surface 60 parallel to the main surface 14. The outer side of the female joint Jf in system 10f is formed with a second female locking surface FL2 which has the smoothly curved surface Cf2, which leads to the flat surface. 62 and subsequently to the inwardly beveled surface 64 which leads to the main surface 16.
    [000209] The joints Jm and Jf are fitted by applying a force or pressure in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16. As is evident from Figure 16d, this system of joints 10f results in the provision of three locking planes 18 , 20 and 74, As a result of the relative juxtaposition of surfaces Cf1 and Cm1; Cm1 and Cm2; and Cm3 and Nf3.
    [000210] Still, in the slotted joint, the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 are located on the angular corners of the recess f, while the smoothly curved surfaces Cf2 and Cf3 are located on the angular corners formed in the recess Rm. In this embodiment, it will be noted that there remains in each of the inner and outer locking planes a smoothly arcuate or curved surface C. Specifically, in the locking plane 18, the smoothly curved surface Cm1 is able to roll against the joint surface Jf, while in the locking plane 20, the arcuate surface Cf2 is able to roll over the tongue surface Jm. Also, due to the unsymmetrical configuration of the Jm and Jf joints, voids or gaps are created between the mated surface to further assist in the relative rotation between the joints and allow for expansion.
    [000211] Figures 17a and 17b represent another 10h joint system that is based on, and is very similar to, 10f joint system. In particular, the 10h system is of the same general shape and configuration as the 10g system, with the substantive differences being the omission of slit 163 and a reduced length on the beveled surfaces 56 and 64. This reduced length is a function of the thickness of the 12h substrate, which is less than that of the 12g substrate. In a non-limiting example, the 12g substrate incorporating the 10g joint system may have a thickness on the order of 5.2 mm, while the 12h substrate incorporating the 10h joint system may have a thickness on the order of 3.5 mm.
    [000212] In all other respects, the 10h joint system is the same in configuration and function as the 10g joint system.
    [000213] Figures 17c to 17e illustrate another feature of the joint system modalities that relates to the ability to fabricate the system and panels of varying thickness using a single set of tools. Figures 17a and 17b illustrate the joint system 10h formed in the panels 12 of a nominal thickness of, viz., 3 mm. In Figure 17c and 17d, the nominal thickness of 3 mm is marked as the innermost horizontal lines 14a and 16a. These lines indicate major surfaces 14 and 16 of a panel 12. The next adjacent pair of lines 14b and 16b illustrate the major surfaces of panel 12 if they were made in a thickness of 3.5 mm. Continuing in an outward direction, line pairs 14c and 16c; 14d and 16d; 14e and 16e; and 14f and 16f; illustrate main surfaces 14 and 16 for panels 12 made in thicknesses of 4mm, 5mm, 6mm and 7mm, respectively. Figure 17e provides perspective for panels 12 made in these different thicknesses. As explained in greater detail hereinafter, the ability to manufacture panel joint systems of varying thickness with a single set of cutting tools provides benefits over the prior art. Another feature of this is that, notwithstanding the variation in thickness of panels 12, it will be seen that the physical size of joints Jm and Jf and interlocking intersurfaces remains constant. Thus, the joint strength between panels is not compromised by a variation in the thickness of the panels.
    [000214] Figures 18a and 18b represent another modality of the joint system 10i. The joint system 10i can be seen as a hybrid combination of several features of the joint systems described above. Both the tongue and groove joints Jf and Jm comprise ball-like or bulbous protrusions P, and recesses R that have smoothly or continuously curved surfaces. The respective surfaces C of tongue and groove joints Jf and Jm are arranged to provide three locking planes 18, 20 and 74 when mutually engaged, as shown in Figure 18b. The tongue and groove joints comprise complementary flat stepped surfaces 148 and 154 which lie parallel to the main surface 14, similarly to the joint system 10e. More specifically, the joint system 10i can be seen as a modification of the joint system 10e, but with the following differences: widening of the respective protrusions P and recesses R; a marginal slope of surfaces 24 and 26 from the perpendicular of main surface 14; a flattening of a portion of the inflection surface if between an upper end of surface Cf1 and surface 154; and extending the chamfered surface 56 so as to extend directly from Cm2 to the main surface 16. It will be further noted from a comparison between Figures 18b and 14b that a space 82 now exists between the flat surfaces 40 and 52, and there is a space between surfaces 154 and 148 in the mating joints Jm and Jf. The joint system 10i operates in the same way as the joint systems previously described in terms of the fit and disengagement and the rolling action between the joints.
    [000215] Figures 19a and 19b represent another modality of the joint system 10j. The Pm and Pf protrusions are each provided with respective slots 163 and 152, similar to those of the joint system 10e. In the 10j joint system, the surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cm3, Cf1 and Cf3 are each smoothly curved. However, the surface Cf2 on the female joint Jf is angular, being composed of a plurality of contiguous plane surfaces. Nevertheless, as shown in Figure 19b, when joints Jm and Jf are mated, locking surfaces ML1 and FL1; ML2 and FL2; and ML3 and FL3 create three lock planes 18, 20 and 74, as previously described here. In each of the outermost locking planes 18 and 20, one of the two respective mating surfaces is continuously curved. Specifically, in locking planes 18 and 20, surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 are continuously curved. This maintains the ability of the joints to roll, providing positive and negative relative rotation and the ability to disengage and thus move and replace a damaged substrate, in an identical manner as described with respect to the previous embodiments. The joint system 10j further includes surfaces 146 and 154 similar to those of subsystem 10e, but in this case these surfaces are inclined at an acute internal angle to the main surface 14. Furthermore, the projection Pm and the recess Rf are relatively configured to form a void or relatively large space 190 between surfaces 40 and 58. Slots 152, 163 provide an internal suspension system that allows compression of the protrusions Pm and Pf to assist in rolling motion.
    [000216] Figures 20a and 20b represent another embodiment of the 10k joint system. The Pm protrusion is formed with continuously curved surfaces Cm1, Cm2 and Cm3. On the female side, protrusion Pf is formed with angular surfaces Cf2 and Cf3, surface Cf1 comprises contiguous flat surfaces 191, 192 and 193. Surface Cf3 comprises contiguous flat surfaces 194, 195 and 196. Surfaces 191 and 194 each, lead to the surface 60 of the protrusion Pf which is located parallel to the main surface 14. Both surfaces 192 and 195 extend perpendicularly to the main surface 14, while the surfaces 193 and 196 are inclined towards another surface 193 lead to an abutting surface. slope 162, which in turn leads to chamfered surface 64 which is cut inward yet substantially parallel to surface 193. Surface 64 leads to main surface 16. Recess path 34 of Rf is formed with flat surface 46 which is located parallel to the main surface 14, and to the oppositely and outwardly inclined surfaces 197 and 198. The surface 198 leads to a surface. ie inwardly inclined 199 which, in turn, is formed contiguously with the flat surface 200. The surface 200 is situated perpendicular to the main surface 14 and joins the surface 154. The combination of surfaces 196 and 197; and surfaces 198 and 199 form respective concave recesses for the placement of surfaces Cm1 and Cm3, as clearly shown in Figure 20b.
    [000217] Observing the tongue Jm, it will be seen that opposite ends of the surface 52 in the recess Rm lead to adjoining outwardly inclined surfaces 201 and 202. The surface 201 then leads to the flat surface 203, which leads to the surface Cm2 . On the opposite side, surface 202 is formed contiguously with another flat surface 204, which then leads to surface Cm3. Surfaces 203 and 204 are perpendicular to main surface 14. In combination, surfaces 201, 203 and part of surfaces Cm2 form a concave recess for surface Cf2. Similarly, the combination of surfaces 202, 204 and part of surface Cm3 forms another concave recess for placement of surface Cf3.
    [000218] The Pm protrusion is also formed with a flat surface 205 which is situated perpendicular to the main surface 14 and extends between the surface Cm1 and the surface 148. When the joints Jm and Jf are fitted, the surfaces 205 and 204 are spaced apart while the respective surfaces 148 and 154; and 26 and 24 are in abutment.
    [000219] Figures 21a and 21b represent another modality of the joint system 101. The protrusion Pm has a male locking surface ML1 which, starting from the main surface 14 is initially provided with a small chamfered surface 146 similar to that shown in the joints 10e and 10i and extends downward, ending in a gently curved surface Cm1. The first male locking surface ML1 also comprises an inflection surface Im1 which includes a flat portion 220 and extends from the chamfered surface 146 towards the surface Cm1.
    [000220] The Pm protrusion also includes a slot 158 similar to that of the joint system 10e. The Pm protrusion is formed with a curved distal surface 40 and is of a generally symmetrical configuration about a centerline passing through the slit 158. For this purpose, the shortest distance line 50 through the neck 48 of the Pm protrusion is situated in a plane parallel to the main surface 14. The slit 158 in the protrusion; Pm is widened outwards near the surface 40, so as to create, in effect, two tongues or a bifurcation with generally rounded or curved ends 221.
    [000221] The third inflection surface Im3 and corresponding third male locking plane ML3 on one side of the protrusion Pm, opposite the inflection surface IM1, is gently curved and leads to the flat surface 52 at the root 32 of the recess m. The surface 52 is located parallel to the main surface j 14. On an opposite side of the recess Rm, the joint Jm is formed with a second male locking surface ML2 which comprises a smoothly curved inflection surface IM2, which subsequently leads to the chamfered surface 56.
    [000222] The first female locking surface FL1 at joint Jf comprises a small chamfered surface 155 starting from main surface 14, followed by a flat surface portion 222 extending perpendicular to main surface 14. Surface 222 leads to inflection surface If1 which is gently curved and extends towards the root 34 of the Rf indentation. Root 34 is provided with flat surface 46 that extends parallel to main surface 14. Surface 46, in turn, leads to third inflection surface If3 which is smoothly curved and corresponds with third female locking surface FL3. The distal surface 60 of the female protrusion Pf extends between the second and third female locking surfaces FL2 and FL3 and is located in a plane parallel to the main surface 14. The second female locking surface FL2 extends continuously towards the main surface 16 beyond. of the inflection surface IF2 in a smoothly curved manner and subsequently leads to the chamfered surface 64.
    [000223] It will be seen from Figure 21b that each of the respective male and female locking surfaces and the corresponding inflection surfaces fit around respective locking planes 18, 20 and 74.
    [000224] In another variation of the embodiment of the joint system 101, a bead B (shown in dashed line) of adhesive of the type described in brief detail can be accommodated in the mouth of the slot 158. This provides additional vertical locking between mated panels as well as padding.
    [000225] Figure 22 represents another modality of the 10m joint system, with the Jf and Jm joints represented separately, but fitted panels 12a and 12b. The 10m joint system is similar to the 10m joint system depicted in Figures 1a - 2 with the main differences being the configuration of the surfaces Cm3 and If3 in the male protrusion Pf. In the 10m joint system, the Cf3 surface extends further in the direction transverses outward, in the form of a hook below surface Cf3, when joints Jm and Jf are fitted. This provides greater resistance to vertical separation along intermediate plane 74 compared to that of joint system 10. In addition, surface Cf3 is provided with small crest or peak 38' similar in configuration and effect to peak 38 on surface Cm1. Due to the configuration of surface Cf3 there is an increased crimping or gripping of the protrusion Pf between surfaces Cm3 and Cm2 during rotation of joint Jm in a negative direction relative to joint Jf. The Jm joint is particularly well, but not exclusively, suitable for use with panels or substrates made of softer material.
    [000226] Figure 23a and Figure 23b represent another modality of the 10n joint system. The joint system 10m differs from the joint system 10 shown in Figures 1 - 3b by the additional provision of three concave recesses, more specifically concave recesses 42b, which are formed at the root of recess f; the concave recess 42c which is formed at the root of the recess Rm; and the concave recess 42d formed in the protrusion Pf. The recess 42d is located such that, when joints Jm and Jf are fitted, recesses 42 and 42b face each other to form a substantially cylindrical or elliptical void 230. Similarly, concave recesses 42c and 42d are located to and face each other when joints Jm and Jf are fitted to form another substantially cylindrical void 232. Void space 230 can be used as a dam or space empty to collect dirt and other debris generated during the placement of substrates 12 provided with joint system Jm.
    [000227] Alternatively, one of the recesses 42 and 42b may be provided with a pre-set flexible adhesive, resealable, and configured to extend into the other recess 42 and 42b. The term "sticky adhesive" throughout the description and Claims is intended to mean adhesive that is capable of being removed and re-adhered, does not harden or cure to form a solid rigid mass and maintains for the long term (by example, many years) flexibility, elasticity and adhesion characteristics. The characteristic of being resealable is intended to mean that the adhesive, when applied to a second surface, can subsequently be removed by applying a tensile or shear force and can subsequently be reapplied (eg up to ten times) without substantive reduction in the strength of subsequent adhesive bonding. Thus, the adhesive provides a removable or non-permanent fixation. The flexibility and elasticity characteristics require the adhesive not to solidify, harden or cure, but in the meantime maintain a degree of flexibility, resilience and elasticity. Such adhesives are commonly known as f glues. ugitives or "stick" type and hot-melt, pressure-sensitive glues. Examples of commercially available adhesives that may be incorporated into embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to: SCOTCH-WELD™ Low Melting Point Gummy Glue; and GLUE DOTS™ from Glue Dots International of Wisconsin.
    [000228] It is noted that glue/adhesive adhesive manufacturers may recommend that the adhesive is not suitable for particular materials, for example wood. However, when the joint system is incorporated into wood or wood-based panels, this does not preclude the use of such adhesives. This is because wood or wood-based panels are usually, and if not, coated with a polymer sealant or other coating. Thus, since the adhesive is recommended for use with polymer surfaces, it can be used over polymer coated wood or wood-based panels. Alternatively, both recesses 42 and 42b can be provided with the resealable adhesive so as to mate with one another when joints Jm and Jf are fitted.
    [000229] In a similar manner, one or both of the concave recesses 42c and 42d may be provided with a glue-on adhesive bead of the type described hereinafter. When only one of the two recesses 42c and 42d is provided with the adhesive, the adhesive is formed into a bead so as to extend into the other of recesses 42c and 42d. However, when both are provided with adhesive, the adhesive material while still in the form of a pearl can be formed to a lesser thickness or depth.
    [000230] The provision of adhesive material has multiple effects. First, it acts to assist in minimizing the possibility of vertical or horizontal separation during the normal service life of the substrates 12. In addition, the adhesive can act as a seal against moisture that passes or from main surfaces 14 through from the joint to the main surface 16 or, in a reverse direction, in the case of moisture seeping through the surface on which the substrates 12 are placed. The provision of the resealable adhesive, however, does not interfere with the ability to remove and replace one or more damaged substrates 12 due to the unique removal system described herein above. As the adhesive is resealable and in particular does not set or cure, the peel system remains effective for removing one or more panels 12 without damaging the joint of adjacent joined panels 12 which are not removed.
    [000231] Another feature of the 10n joint system is that the locking surfaces ML3 and FL3 are each provided with flat surfaces 210 and 212, which lie parallel to the locking plane 74. There, the surfaces are pressed together when the Jm and Jf joints are mated. Provided that no wax is placed on these surfaces, they will, in effect, provide a frictional intermediate locking plane 74. Such frictional intermediate locking planes may be incorporated into others of those described above.
    [000232] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 23c-23i, adhesive is applied to both of the recesses in the tongue Jm only, not the female joint Jf. In such an embodiment, due to the nature of the resealable adhesive, when a substrate 12 is removed from adjacent substrates, the adhesive remains in recesses 42 and 42c of the removed substrates. Furthermore, the nature of the adhesive is such that it remains in the recess in which it was originally provided. This is represented in Figures 23c-23i, which show progressively the disengagement of joints Jm and Jf from joint system 10n.
    [000233] Figure 23c shows the Jm and Jf joints before fitting. Recesses 42 and 42c are each provided with respective beads B1 and B2 of adhesive backing 300, covered with release strips R1 and R2. There is no sticker on recesses 42b and 42d. Figure 23d shows gaskets Jm and Jf fully engaged with release strips R1 and R2 removed such that the adhesive 300 on beads B1 and B2 adheres to the surface of recesses 42b and 42d.
    [000234] Figures 23e-23i show the typical disengagement process of the Jm and Jf joints in the modalities of any joint system, with initially the Jm joint being rotated in a negative (clockwise) direction relative to the Jf joint to release the Pm protrusion from the recess Rf, and the subsequent application of downward pressure on the female joint Jf. The resealable adhesive is able to flex and move during the separation process to allow rotation and is subsequently pulled from recesses 42b and 42d to remain in recesses 42 and 42c.
    [000235] Adhesive beads B connected to joint J can also act to absorb debris that are disposed in the recess, inside which bead B must be adhered. For example, bead B attached in recess 42 can absorb debris in recess 42b, into which bead B is adhered. Debris will initially adhere to the outer surface of bead B. When panels 12 move, in normal use, there will also be some movement and rolling of bead B. This is believed to have the effect of pulling the debris into the adhesive, from such that the adhesive wraps around the debris and provides a new adhesive surface to stick to the recess 42b.
    [000236] One or more adhesive beads may be provided in each of the previously described embodiments to provide additional vertical and horizontal blocking resistance, while still allowing full operation and benefits of the embodiments. This can be achieved, for example, by providing one or more recesses 42 in one of the joints Jm or Jf to seat the adhesive bead. Depending on the thickness of the bead, a receiving recess may or may not be required on the other Jm and Jf joints. The provision of the resealable adhesive can be seen as providing an additional locking plane for the joint system.
    [000237] Typically, as in the example above, the adhesive is placed in only one of two mutually facing recesses 42. The bond when the adhesive is initially placed in this recess is stronger than the bond when this adhesive bead acts as the surface of the opposite recess in the other substrate. Thus, when a substrate is removed, the adhesive originally applied to that substrate remains with this substrate.
    [000238] In all of the above described modalities of the joint system 10, it will be noted that the protrusions Pm and Pf are not of the same configuration, that is, they cannot be transposed one over the other. Similarly, the recesses Rm and Rf are not of the same configuration, that is, they cannot be transposed over one another. More particularly, their mating protrusions and recesses are not of a complementary configuration. Thus, the Pm and Pf protrusions; the Rm and Rf recesses; and joints Jm and Jf are asymmetric. As a consequence, when a protrusion P is fitted into recess R, gaps or spaces are created between the male and female locking surfaces ML1, FL1 and ML2, FL2 in the inner and outer locking planes 18 and 20. This assists in providing the ability of joint system modalities to roll or rotate in opposite directions for up to 3° by providing the space within which the protrusion can roll without disengaging. This in turn helps the joint system's ability to be used easily and successfully over undulating floors. This will be recognized by those in the art as satisfying a need particularly in the do-it-yourself market for flooring systems which to date have hardened systems that require high quality underlying surfaces for successful installation.
    [000239] As a result of the specific configuration of joint systems according to embodiments of the present invention, and in particular when they are true vertical systems, it is possible for manufacturers to manufacture panels with a wide range of thickness with a single set of cut. For example, for manufactured or natural wood substrates, a single cutting tool set can produce panel joint systems ranging from 20mm to 8mm, with the only adjustment required being a simple adjustment of the depth of cut. Similarly, with plastic panels, such as LVT, a single cutting tool assembly can produce panel joint systems ranging from 7mm to 3mm, as shown and previously described with reference to Figures 17c - 17e. This is of significant commercial benefit, providing reduced production costs, which can be passed on to the consumer.
    [000240] The cost range for a set of cutting tools to cut a joint system is typically between US$30,000 to US$50,000. Usually a set of cutting tools used for prior art joints can be used for two different thicknesses. For example one set is used for joints in panels 7mm-6mm thick; and a second set for a thickness of 5mm-4mm. It also takes about 3 hours to replace a cutting tool set, then several additional hours to prepare the cutting machine with the new tool set. Subsequently, several test runs are made and the products evaluated for fine tuning of the tool and machine adjustment before large-scale production can resume. If the only adjustment required is to change the depth of cut, then there is no cost for the new cutting tools and downtime is reduced to a total of about 1 hour. A further benefit of this is that of relatively small fabrications and able to provide relatively small production runs of coating at low cost and thus compete with larger fabrications. This can increase competition and thus, in turn, benefit the consumer.
    [000241] Referring to Figures 24a-26e, a semi-floating/semi-direct bonding surface coating system may be provided by a plurality of substrates 12 incorporating any of the joint systems 10 as heretofore described and further incorporating an amount of the resealable adhesive 300 bonded to the first main surface 16. The resealable adhesive 300 is used in conjunction with a sealant or sealing membrane (not shown) that is applied to an underlying surface, on which the adhesive 300 is to be switched on. Many sealants are commercially available which can perform this function. Such sealants can include, for example, BONDCRETE™ or CROMMELIN™ concrete sealer. The type of sealant used is simply dependent on the type of surface on which the semi-floating surface coating system is to be used. The purpose is to prevent the generation of dust that would otherwise interfere with the bond strength of the blue 300 adhesive.
    [000242] Others have used glues in the past to adhere substrates to floors. In particular, adhesives were used to glue wooden floorboards to an underlying surface. However, to the best knowledge of the inventor, all of such systems use glues that are specifically designed to harden or cure to a solid inflexible bonded layer. In the wood or wood floor technique, this is known as a "direct glue" floor. Some have proposed using adhesives that take up to an hour or two to harden or cure to allow installers to move the floor panels during installation to ensure correct alignment. More specifically, others propose using patches that can take up to 28 days to fully cure or harden.
    [000243] Some consumers prefer the direct glue floor to the floating floor as it provides a harder and more solid feel and significantly does not provide resilience when walking on them and does not generate noise such as squeaks or squeaks. One disadvantage, however, of a direct bonded floor is that it is very messy to apply, and once the adhesive has cured, which is specifically designed to accomplish this, the removal and/or repair of one or more damaged panels is problematic. Removing a directly glued panel usually requires the use of powerful tools to initially cut through a section of the panel, and then a lot of heavy work in scraping the remainder of the board and adhesive from the underlying subsurface. This generates substantial dust and noise and, of course, usually produces a substantial expense due to the associated time required.
    [000244] The use of the adhesive, as described above, with substrates 12 that incorporate the joint system 10 provides a semi-floating surface coating system that has the benefits of both traditional floating surface coatings and of surface coatings. direct bonding, yet without the substantial disadvantages of direct bonding surface coverings. Specifically, the use of Glue Adhesive 300 eliminates the resiliency and noise often found in conventional float coating, but still provides a degree of cushioning due to the adhesive's flexible and elastic characteristics, which does not harden or cure. Furthermore, the characteristics of the adhesive also allow movement of the substrates/panels 12 due to changes in the environmental condition, such as temperature and humidity. This is not possible with the direct glue floor. More specifically, recently, the world market has had problems with direct bonding of compressed bamboo substrates due to the completely rigid and inflexible bond created by traditional adhesives. Consequently, should compressed bamboo move or expand due to variations in environmental conditions, it is restricted from doing this by a direct bonding adhesive. Consequently, it has been suggested by multiple flooring associations around the world that compressed bamboo should not be glued directly to substrates, but limited to application in floating floor systems, which allow it to move in response to dynamic seasonal changes.
    [000245] The provision of the resealable adhesive also allows the absorption of undulations or variations in the underlying surface to which it is applied. This is facilitated by provision of the adhesive 300 in beads or strips of a thickness, measured perpendicular to the main surfaces 14, 16, of between 1 - 6 mm and more particularly 2 - 4 mm. In addition to absorbing variations in the underlying surface, the adhesive, as mentioned above, also provides acoustic benefits in: (a) eliminating noise and creak, which may otherwise occur from resilience or deflection in traditional floating floors; (b) dampening transmission of vibrations (i.e. noise) between adjacent panels; and (c) damping transmission of vibrations (i.e. noise) in multi-storey buildings from an upper level to an immediately adjacent lower level. This, again, must present a contrast to straight bonding glues which, due to their curing to form a rigid bond, do not in any way dampen the transmission of vibrations or noise.
    [000246] The benefits and advantages of using adhesive adhesive, as previously described here, in its own right, gives rise to a floor covering system comprising substrates that can be arranged in squares and on which the adhesive is applied. Such systems do not necessarily require vertical joint systems of the type described above and can also be used with other types of joint systems. In fact, under certain circumstances, it is believed that the resealable adhesive concept gives rise to a surface coating system with jointless substrates. Thus, in one embodiment, a semi-floating surface coating system would be provided comprising a plurality of substrates, each substrate having opposite first and second main surfaces, the first main surface arranged to lie parallel to, and facing the surface to be covered; an amount of resealable adhesive as described above attached to the first main surface herein; and one or more release strips covering the adhesive removal.
    [000247] It is conceived, in one modality, that the adhesive 300 is applied at the time of manufacturing the substrate 12. Thus, in this modality, a commercial product would comprise, for example, substrate boxes 12 provided with one or more lines of adhesive material 300, covered with release strips 302. Installers are then able to simply install a surface coating by applying, if it does not already exist, a cover or sealing membrane to the surface 304, removing the release strip 302 and pressing the substrate 12 onto an underlying surface 304. In the case where the substrate also includes a joint system, such as, but not limited to, the joint systems 10 et al., as described herein above, then the installer would fit the joints of adjacent panels during the installation process.
    [000248] In one example, it is envisioned that the adhesive material 302 can be applied by rolling a strip or bead of hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive onto the main surface 16. Figures 24a-24c illustrate the adhesive 300 applied as strips of adhesive, while Figures 25a and 25b illustrate the adhesive 300 applied as adhesive beads B. In embodiments in which the resealable adhesive is provided by, viz., GLUE DOTS™ adhesive dots, the dots can be applied by machine 16.
    [000249] In the present embodiments, the amount of resealable adhesive 300 is applied in three spaced lines extending in a longitudinal direction L of a panel 12. However, as will be explained in more detail below, the adhesive material 300 can be applied in different settings. The resealable adhesive material 300 is covered by one or more release strips 302. In the illustrated embodiment, a separate release strip 302 is applied individually to each individual row of adhesive material 300. However, in an alternative embodiment, a single strip of adhesive release that has dimensions substantially equal to the dimensions of the main surface 16 can be applied to the amount of resealable adhesive 300. In this case, when using substrate 12, an installer needs to tear off only one release strip 302, rather than a number of strips separate release lines.
    [000250] Figures 24c and 25b represent the use of the surface coating system based on adhesive on an underlying surface 304, which can be, for example, a concrete base. In order to apply panel 12, release strips 302 are removed and panel 12 is applied with surface 16 oriented towards or facing surface 304. By finding adhesive material 300 to surface 304 and applying downward pressure , panel 12 is adhered to surface 304. Additional panel 12 may also be adhered to surface 304 and arranged in squares to form a surface coating. Adhesive material 300 is tacky and strong enough to adhere to surface 304 with sufficient force to prevent lifting or separation between panel 12 and surface 304 under normal conditions of use. It is believed that provision of the adhesive in the form of B-beads (Figures 25a and 25b) can provide greater horizontal movement, which typically occurs with changes in environmental conditions (eg, temperature and humidity). This stems from the rounded nature of B pearls, which can facilitate an easier rolling or shear effect than adhesive strips.
    [000251] The removal of a damaged panel (either with no joint system or with the joint system of a type described here above, i.e. a vertical joint system) can be carried out in the same manner as described here above in relation to Figures 6a-6s. That is, a damaged panel is removed vertically through the use of one or more connectors 92. Figures 26a - 26e depict, in part, the removal of a damaged panel 12b from a semi-floating surface coating system which includes panels joined 12a and 12c. Each of the panels in the semi-floating floor system is formed with a joint system 10 which can be in accordance with any of the modalities of the joint system described above. In addition, beads B of adhesive material 300 adhere panels 12 to underlying surface 90. In this particular embodiment, there are no beads of adhesive material between joints Jm and Jf of joint system 10. However, in alternative embodiments, such adhesive material can be provided. In terms of the process for removing panel 12b, the provision of additional adhesive between joints Jm and Jf is of no consequence. That is, the removal process remains the same regardless of whether or not there is adhesive material between the Jm and Jf joints.
    [000252] Figures 26b - 26e sequentially show the steps of affixing a connector 92 to the damaged plate 12b and subsequently operating the connector to lift the panel 12b from the surface 90. The sequence of steps and the method of its performance are identical to those described here above in relation to Figures 6d - 6h. However, in this case, due to the provision of the B beads of adhesive 300, the operation of the connector 92 to vertically lift the panel 12b also has the effect of initially flexing and stretching the B beads and subsequently causing the B beads to detach and detach. elevate from the underlying surface 90. This will generally occur in sequence when a connector is operated to elevate panel 12b from the region in the vicinity of connector 92 outwardly to the lower lying regions. Thus, the first beads B to protrude from surface 90 will be those on either side of, or otherwise closer to, axis 96 of connector 92. As connector 92 progressively lifts panel 12b, beads B of adhesive 300 closest to the most recently detached pearls will now be lifted from surface 90 and so on.
    [000253] Generally, the entirety of the beads B will rise from surface 90 and thus remain attached to substrate 12. In some cases, very small portions of adhesive 300 may remain on the underlying surface 90. Once when connector 92 has gone operated to the extent of lifting panel 12b such that all of the adhesive beads B have been detached, the remainder of the normal removal process as described in relation to Figures 6g - 6i; and indeed, the entirety of the replacement processes shown and described in relation to Figures 6j - 6o must be employed to reinsert a new undamaged panel.
    [000254] It will be noted that some of the B beads of adhesive 300 have separated from adjacent panels 12a and 12c. During the reinstallation process, those beads that remained on the panels 12a and 12c will re-adhere to the underlying surface 90. In addition, of course, when a new panel is joined to panels 12a and 12c, the adhesive 300 on this new panel will now also adhesively bond to surface 90.
    [000255] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, this represents a huge advantage over direct bonding floor systems in terms of the ability to properly repair a damaged floor. The accepted industry standard for optimal repair of a damaged floor is to tear off all of the panels from the wall closest to the damaged panel or panels. With the right gluing systems, this is such a difficult task that repairers often take shortcuts and simply try to remove and replace only the damaged panels. This makes it impossible to reconnect the mechanical joints between the panels. In the event of any dimensional variation in the panels or due to environmental expansion or contraction, or simply due to the inability to obtain dimensionally equivalent new panels, the installation will also require the use of fillers to make any gap between the existing panels and the new panel good. installed.
    [000256] Another feature of substrates that incorporate those modalities of the joint system 10 is the reverse placement capability. Reverse placement has two meanings in technique. One meaning refers to the ability to place from both sides of a panel. For example, consider a first panel approximately halfway between parallel walls in an enclosure. The reverse placement capability allows two installers (or two teams of installers) to locate in opposite directions away from the first panel. This of course greatly reduces installation time. This is used with direct glue panels and has the benefit of allowing the outward passage to be amortized between opposing walls of a room to provide a superior visual appearance. Reverse placement with direct glue is possible because the layer can glue a first panel in an optimal position or close to the center of the room to minimize passage close to the walls. Additional panels can be adhered from the opposite side of the first panel. This cannot be done with floating floors, because a first panel placed in an optimal position is not fixed, it floats, and thus cannot be used as a base for placement in opposite directions.
    [000257] The other meaning of reverse placement refers to the ability to mate panels 12 that extend perpendicular (or in some orientation other than parallel) to each other. This allows, for example, the ability to place, namely, in a herring bone pattern.
    [000258] The current prior art, even with direct gluing, makes it reasonably difficult to reverse the floor placement, because traditionally it must seat away from the female joint. This is because, in the prior art, the tongue joint placement process is traditionally 50+% shorter than the tongue, thus creating a less extreme angle necessary or unnecessary for mating the tongue portion to the feminine portion in a plane horizontal locked. As the present joint system 10 is vertical, there is no laying process. However, the vertical nature of the joint system 10 makes it exceptionally easy to fit panels from either side, either by placing a tongue over an exposed tongue in order to seat in one direction, or to slide the tongue under a tongue. of a previously placed panel in order to reverse the direction.
    [000259] Figures 27a and 27b illustrate the above aspects or meaning of reverse placement figuratively. Figure 27a shows a floor plan 400 of a building, in which a floor comprising a plurality of panels 12 is placed. Figure 27b illustrates in enlarged view detail A of Figure 27a which comprises a part of a building passage. Consider placing a traditional floating floor in the building. The layer would choose a wall, eg wall 402 in an enclosure 403 as a starting wall, against which a first panel 12a is placed. It is well known that walls in buildings are never perfectly parallel or square to each other and can be out of alignment by up to 100 mm or more. In the current floor plan, wall 404 runs generally, but not exactly, parallel to wall 402 and may be out of alignment by a length of, namely, 100 mm between opposite ends of walls 402 and 404. Thus, when layer covers additional panels 12b, 12c, etc., up to panel 12p, the misalignment or divergence between walls 404 and 402 becomes evident, as the edge of panel 12p does not touch wall 404. However, there is a divergence between the edge of panel 12p and wall 404, requiring the provision of obliquely cut panels 12q, placed end to end to form the interstice between panels 12p and wall 404. (It should be explained that it would be unusual for a single panel to have a length sufficient to extend the entire length of enclosure 403. Thus, reference to panels 12a, 12b, etc. is made solely for the purposes of ease of description. those in enclosure 403 would comprise a plurality of panels joined end to end).
    [000260] The substantial misalignment between walls 402 and 404 is highlighted by the 12q obliquely cut panel. It will also be seen in Figure 27a that there are openings 406 and 408, for example, door passages in wall 404 into enclosure 410 and an entrance courtyard 412. Panels placed in enclosure 410 and 412 follow the same direction and alignment as panels 12 in enclosure 403. This then continues into the degree of misalignment between the panels and the walls of the house.
    [000261] It will also be seen, however, that in other areas, for example, enclosures 414, 416, and in the forecourt 418, panels 12 are placed generally perpendicular to panels placed in the other enclosures. This is provided as an illustration of the second form or type of reverse placement.
    [000262] With the use of the semi-floating, direct semi-gluing flooring system as described above in relation to Figures 24a - 25b, the layer can now utilize a centerline 420 of, viz. enclosure 401, as a starting point for placing the first panel and then placing the reverse in opposite directions. By doing so, misalignment between walls 402 and 404, from a visual perspective, can be minimized by amortizing outward travel on panels 12 immediately adjacent to walls 402 and 404. This can be seen as centerline 420 passes through obliquely through panels 12i and 12j, which are shown in positions provided by traditional placement practice for floating floors.
    [000263] Now that the modalities of the vertical joint system and surface coating system have been described in detail, it will be evident to those skilled in the art, that numerous modifications and variations can be made without departing from the basic inventive concepts. For example, modalities are shown in relation to wooden floor panels. However, the systems are applicable to any different materials and can also be applied to surfaces or structures other than floors. For example, panels that incorporate the joint system can be made from plastic material to treat the LVT market ("luxury vinyl tile") or can be provided on base substrates made of plastic materials, to which plastic panels are affixed. face of another material, such as carpet or ceramic tiles. In this embodiment, the resulting panel has a laminate-like structure, in which the base includes joint system embodiments and the face panel is provided to a consumer with the desired finish. It will also be apparent that any of the features of different embodiments are interchangeable or can be additionally applied. For example, recess 42 can be applied to each and all modalities of the joint system. As can: an opposite recess of the type shown in recess 42b in Figure 22a; or, in fact, additional recesses 42b, 42c and 42d. In addition, the adhesive backing 300 can be applied to such recesses. Also, connector 92 is described as a screw connector. However, other types of connectors or lifting systems can be used, such as a lever connector or pneumatically or hydraulically operated systems. In addition, joint systems 10 are widely described in application to elongated rectangular panels. However, they can be applied to panels of any shape that can be applied in squares. For example, the joint system can be applied as square, hexagonal or triangular panels. Also, there is no need for the panels to be of identical shape and/or size. [000264] All such modifications and variations together with others that would be obvious to persons of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, the nature of which is to be determined from the above description and the appended Claims.
    权利要求:
    Claims (10)
    [0001]
    1. Vertical Joint System (10) for substrate having a first and second opposing main surfaces, the joint system (10) comprising: male and female joints (Jm, Jf) that extend along opposite sides of the substrate, the male and female joints being non-symmetrical such that, when the joints are mated together, several gaps or spaces are formed between the mated joints, the male joint comprising a generally extending male protrusion (Pm) perpendicular from the first main surface to the second main surface and a male recess (Rm) formed within the male protrusion (Pm); the female joint (Jf) comprising a female protrusion (Pf) extending generally perpendicular from the second major surface to the first major surface and a female recess (Rf) formed within the female protrusion; wherein the male protrusion (Pm) has a transversely extending surface (Cm1) on a side remote from the male recess (Rm) as being an outermost side of the tongue, the male recess (Rm) having a transversely extending surface (Cm2) on a far side of the male protrusion (Pm) as an innermost side of the tongue, the female protrusion (Pf) having a transversely extending surface (CF2) on a far side of the female recess as an outermost side of the groove, the groove (Rf) having a transversely extending surface (Cf1) on a side distant from the groove as being an innermost side of the groove; characterized in that the laterally spaced transversally extending surfaces (Cm1, Cm2, Cf1, Cf2) are curved convex surfaces configured to allow the tongue joint (Jm) of one substrate to mate with the female joint (Jf) of a second substrate with the transversely extending surfaces (Cm1, Cm2) of the tongue joint positioned relative to the transversely extending surfaces (Cf1, Cf2) of the second joint to form respective first and second locking planes (18, 20) on the side innermost and outermost side of each joint, each locking plane being parallel to the engagement direction and wherein the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane extending laterally relative to each other from points opposites of the locking plane with the transversely extending surfaces (Cf1, Cf2) of the female joint overhanging the transversely extending surfaces (Cm1, Cm2) of the joint male; wherein two or more substrates with similar joint systems (10) are capable of coupling one another in response to a force applied in a snapping direction that is perpendicular to the main surfaces and subsequently disengaged by lifting a first substrate in a direction opposite to the direction. to facilitate rotation of the nested adjacent substrates along opposite sides of the first substrate to lie on slant planes from the first substrate and subsequently apply a force in the snapping direction to the second joints of the nested substrates.
    [0002]
    2. Vertical Joint System (10), according to claim 1, characterized in that the male and female joints (Jm, Jf) are further configured to allow the adjacent embedded substrates to rotate by up to 7 0 to 10 0 down from the first substrate without snapping off.
    [0003]
    3. Vertical Joint System (10), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the male and female joints (Jm, Jf) are configured to allow adjacent embedded substrates to rotate by up to 30 in inclined planes in relation to the first substrate.
    [0004]
    4. Vertical Joint System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the male and female joints are each provided with two laterally spaced inflection surfaces configured to allow the male joint to one substrate fits into the groove of a second substrate with the two inflection surfaces (lm 1, Im2) of the tongue fitting into the two inflection surfaces (If1, If2) of the groove on the innermost and outermost sides of each of the joints to form respective first and second locking planes (18, 20), each of which independently inhibits the separation of the locked joints in a direction parallel to the locking direction, wherein the inflection surfaces associated with each locking plane lie from both sides of this locking plane and where the transversely extending surfaces (Cm1, Cm2) of the tongue are part of the respective inflection surfaces (lm1, Im2) of the mac joint ho; and the transversely extending surfaces (Cf1, Cf2) of the groove are part of the respective inflection surfaces (If1, If2) of the groove.
    [0005]
    5. Vertical Joint System (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the male joint (Jm) has a first male locking surface (ML1), formed on one side of its male protrusion (Pm) farthest from its female recess (Rm), a second male locking surface (ML2) formed on one side of its female recess (Rm) farthest from its male protrusion (Pm) and being a third male locking surface ( ML3) a surface common to the male protrusion (Pm) and the male recess (Rm); the female joint (Jf) having a first female locking surface (FL1) formed on a side of its female recess (Rf) furthest from its male protrusion (Pf), a second female locking surface (FL2) formed on a side of its male protrusion (Pf) further away from its female recess (Rf) and a third female blocking surface (MF3) being a common surface to the female protrusion (Pf) and female recess (Rf); the locking surfaces being configured such that when a tongue and groove joint of two substrates are coupled, the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface (ML1, FL1) mate to form the first locking plane (18), the second male and female locking surfaces (MF2, FL2) mate to form the second locking plane (20) and the third female and male locking surfaces (ML3, FL3) mate to form a third plane (74) situated between the first and second locking planes (18, 20), each locking plane inhibiting the separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the coupling direction and wherein the first male locking surface (ML1) includes the transversely extending surface (Cm1), the second male locking surface (ML2) includes the transversely extending surface (Cm2), the first female locking surface (FL1) including the extending surface t transversely (Cf1) and the second female locking surface (FL2) includes the transversely extending surface (CF2).
    [0006]
    6. Vertical Joint System (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the male and female joints (Jm, Jf) are configured to create three locking planes (18, 74, 20), when mutually engaged, each locking plane being parallel to the engagement direction and inhibiting the separation of the engaged joints in a direction opposite to the engagement direction.
    [0007]
    7. Vertical Joint System (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, when the substrate is in the configuration of a flat rectangular or square substrate with four sides, the male joint (Jm) extends to two adjacent sides and the female joint (Jf) extends to the remaining two adjacent sides.
    [0008]
    8. Semi-floating Surface Covering System, characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of substrates, each substrate having a system of vertical joints (10) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7; an amount of re-hardening adhesive bonded to the first major surface; and one or more release strips covering the re-hardening adhesive.
    [0009]
    9. Surface Covering System, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of substrates, each substrate having: opposite first and second main surfaces, wherein the first main surface is arranged to confront an underlying support to be covered by the system ; and an upright joint system (10) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein one side of the substrate is provided with the tongue and an opposite side of the substrate is provided with the groove.
    [0010]
    10. Surface Covering System, according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises at least one jack (92) detachably attachable to the first substrate, the jack (92) comprising an axle arranged to pass through a hole formed in the first substrate for support on the subadjacent support, the jack (92) being operable to extend the shaft through the hole to thereby lift the first substrate from the subadjacent support.
    类似技术:
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CL2013002698A1|2014-11-14|
    CN103547749B|2016-09-28|
    EP2686502A1|2014-01-22|
    EP2686502A4|2014-09-17|
    EP3597836B1|2022-01-12|
    JP2014513757A|2014-06-05|
    CA2866109A1|2012-09-27|
    CA2866109C|2017-07-25|
    SG193535A1|2013-10-30|
    EP2686502B1|2019-09-11|
    PL2686502T3|2020-03-31|
    CN103547749A|2014-01-29|
    WO2012126046A1|2012-09-27|
    KR101998335B1|2019-07-09|
    JP6254519B2|2017-12-27|
    BR112013023790A2|2016-12-06|
    RU2604358C2|2016-12-10|
    KR20140050596A|2014-04-29|
    RU2013146212A|2015-04-27|
    EP3597836A1|2020-01-22|
    MY167150A|2018-08-13|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-18| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-10-29| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-01| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-05-04| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-06-29| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 16/03/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    AU2011900987A|AU2011900987A0|2011-03-18|Structural Locking System|
    AU2011900987|2011-03-18|
    AU2011902017|2011-05-24|
    AU2011902017A|AU2011902017A0|2011-05-24|Structural Locking System|
    AU2011902871A|AU2011902871A0|2011-07-19|Structural Locking System|
    AU2011902871|2011-07-19|
    AU2011904668|2011-11-09|
    AU2011904668A|AU2011904668A0|2011-11-09|Structural Locking System|
    PCT/AU2012/000280|WO2012126046A1|2011-03-18|2012-03-16|Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system|
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